starter motor jammed.

[lambert.john]

This morning I went to start my SA, it started to turn over but came to an abrupt halt - the starter's jammed! Unfortunately, being an auto I can't "rock" it free. I can get the breakdown service in who will free it for me - until the next time! Has anyone replaced a starter motor recently? Are they readily available? Or will I have to get the old one reconditioned?

[amarshall]

I can change a starter motor in about 20 minutes these days (I seem to need one about 3 years for some reason - gulp! it's about due again) - 17mm ring spanner is the key.

Lotusbits usually have recon. units on the shelf, or there's probably someone local to you who can refurb it while you wait - they're normally behind the street of a thousand dodgy cheap car dealers

[lambert.john]

Thanks, Angus. That's just the steer I needed!

[Tanz]

I fitted a high torque Powerlite starter 3 years ago. Really turns the engine over quickly and takes less out of the battery. If you are worried about originality under the bonnet you can't see the starter anyway.

[barker_001]

I had my starter motor reconditioned last year by Malcolm at Llandaff Recons, local to me in Cardiff. I understand he also does shipping / mail order etc. A decent old school guy and very reasonably priced.

http://www.llandaffrecons.co.uk/default.html

[robertverhey]

Shared with some Jaguar XJ6 models of the era, but watch out for different orientation of solenoid. Mine runs a jaguar starter

Shockin' job from memory. Mainly because they used bolts and nuts rather than threading the bellhousing....if memory serves.

[amarshall]

Shockin' job from memory. Mainly because they used bolts and nuts rather than threading the bellhousing....if memory serves.

Yup. That's why a long ring spanner is handy. Get it on the hex between bellhousing and scuttle and brace it, then wind everything in or out with a ratchet handle and extension bar from under the carbs. Access is pretty good with the airbox off, though the oil filter and dizzy limit movement a little.

[bash]

I presume you've tried the old fashioned quick fix, twatting it with a two pound vernier adjusting tool ?

Bash
And yes, it does work and isnt an anti frustration measure

[lambert.john]

[quote="bash"]I presume you've tried the old fashioned quick fix, twatting it with a two pound vernier adjusting tool ?/quote]

Yes, of course, that's worth remembering! It could get me out of trouble if I find myself stranded.