Re: 83 UrQ no start

[steveb@newkla.kla.com (Steven Buchholz)]

> Its my '83 TQC, lately it started a new trick where I turn the key and 
> absolutely **NOTHING** happens.  With the exception of the buzzer and the 
> correct dash idiot lights, the starter will not engage whatsoever. No 
> click, no dimming lights, no draw on the system at all.  Any clues?
> 
> I am able to pop start it no prob.. and when its having an 'episode' I 
> can put it in gear ,and roll it a little (VERY little) and try again, and 
> usually the starter will kick in. (not enough data to verify this, but 
> twice that seemed to be the case.)
> 
> Any suggestions appreciated. 
> 
> BTW, batter etc all up to snuff... even took of the wires on the 
> alternator and shined them up.... when it does crank, it cranks normal, 
> not slow...
> 
I had the exact same problem as you described.  I was about to install a
relay to improve the voltage to the solenoid, but for a first attempt I
decided to clean up all of the grounds.  I did the big ground strap that 
bolts to the left side motor mount as well as all the other brown wire/
lugs that attach to the same bolt.  I rearranged the order so that the
big lug was the closest to the star washer and scraped a little paint
off to try to get a better connection.  I did the same for the other
grounding point near the ignition coil.  The car has been starting quite
easily lately!  I've even tempted the God's by taking the car shopping
(usually guaranteed to provide a cool down respite) with no problems
starting when I get back to the car ...

Another possibility is the ignition switch module itself.  The starter 
solenoid current flows through this switch, and IME this part needs to 
be replaced regularly.  Fortunately it is a fairly easy task, and the 
part is pretty cheap.

As a last resort you might want to consider putting a relay between the 
starter switch and the solenoid to get a higher voltage to the solenoid.
Bentley states that 8 volts is acceptable, but I'm dubious.  I posted a
note to the list a few weeks back about the VW tech bulletin that spec'd
10 volts!  The TB described the method by which a relay could be instal-
led, but I know that you are fully capable of figgering it out for your-
self.  It turns out that Marty at Carlsen has assembled a kit of parts 
including an official Bosch relay with plug and harness that he is sell-
ing for $20.  I have one, and my only concern is that the wires may not 
be long enough for me to mount the thing anywhere but in the engine 
compartment.  I will probably install the thing soon in any case, and I 
was planning to post my results to the list afterwards ...

HTH!
Steve Buchholz
s_buchho@kla.com
San Jose, CA (USA)