5000TQ Avant Starting Problems

[Huw Powell]

Stephen Sherman wrote:
> We have an old, trusted (at least until now) 87 Avant turbo wagon that 
> still get regular use as a snow car. It has been running well until 
> recently, when the temps went below 0F and the starter began having 
> problems.
> 
> The symptoms are that at cold temps (even with a charged battery) the 
> starter will only crank the engine for a few seconds, then it disengages 
> from the flywheel. Unfortunately a sec or two is not enough to start the 
> engine in these cold conditions. At warmer temps (say above 10F) it 
> cranks and starts just fine. The length of time the starter stays 
> engaged with the flywheel does down with every attempt, as the battery 
> drains.
> 
> I have a few questions, before I start crawling around in the snow to 
> pull the starter:
> 
> 1. Since this seems to be battery charge related, what is the chance 
> that a new Battery sould solve it (current battery is ~2 years old)? Any 
> way to tell short of just getting a new one?

A two year old battery shouldn't be a problem.

> 2. I've seen several posts about lubing the starter bendix/solenoid  
> mechanism. Seems like it couldn't hurt, but can I do this effectively 
> with the starter still installed? Is there a port or bolt hole that will 
> allow some WD40 or the like to get where it needs to go, and not end up 
> on the flywheel and clutch?  If so, which one is it and where is that 
> located?

No.

> 3. Other suggestions?

Lifetime warranty rebuilt starter from FLAPS $100 or so.  If you're 
gonna crawl under there, just replace it.

Is your starter motor original?

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi

http://www.humanthoughts.org/