|
|
|
Your donations help keep this valuable resource free and growing. Thank you.
|
1982 Spirit 258 cranks over without key in |
Post Reply 
|
| Author | |
74Javelin401 
AMC Apprentice 
Joined: Jan/19/2010 Location: BC, Canada Status: Offline Points: 39 |
 Post Options
 Thanks(0)
 Quote Reply
 Topic: 1982 Spirit 258 cranks over without key inPosted: Oct/13/2019 at 12:00pm |
|
Hi all,
I have a 1982 Spirit with the 258. Yesterday, I went to start it and the battery was dead. When I was installing a new battery, I hooked up the positive cable then as I went to hook up the negative cable to the battery, the engine cranked and started. No key in the ignition. I thought it might be the starter, so I replaced it. Went to hook up the battery and same thing, the engine cranked and started. Any suggestions as to what might be my problem? Starter solenoid on fender well or the ignition switch, or something else? Any suggestions welcome. |
|
 |
|
|
Heavy 488
AMC Addicted 
Joined: Apr/27/2019 Location: In the Status: Offline Points: 3552 |
Post Options
Thanks(0)
Quote Reply
Posted: Oct/13/2019 at 12:46pm |
|
Skmetimes when you try to start with a really low battery, there isnt enough current available to fully latch the solenoid. The contacts inside will flash arc and stick the contacts together. Try tapping/ smack the solenoid on the fender to free it.
|
|
|
|
|
tomj
AMC Addicted
Joined: Jan/27/2010 Location: earth Status: Offline Points: 7539 |
Post Options
Thanks(0)
Quote Reply
Posted: Oct/13/2019 at 6:47pm |
|
i had a starter solenoid schedule it's own disassembly while on the road, driving down a texas freeway. WHIRRRRRRRRRRRRR.... til i pulled over got out a 1/2" wrench and disconnected the battery. upon disassembly the "switch" assembly in the solenoid had somehow fallen apart. what heavy sez, on top of that, it's a really old part. lube hardens, etc. it's hammer time! |
|
|
1960 Rambler Super two-door wagon, OHV auto
1961 Roadster American, 195.6 OHV, T5 http://www.ramblerLore.com |
|
|
|
|
farna
Supporter of TheAMCForum 
Moderator Lost Dealership Project Joined: Jul/08/2007 Location: South Carolina Status: Offline Points: 19675 |
Post Options
Thanks(0)
Quote Reply
Posted: Oct/14/2019 at 6:25am |
|
Just replace the solenoid. If that doesn't do it, replace the ignition switch at the base of the column. On a GM column like that the switch is near the base, the key assembly moves a rod which activates the switch. It's possible that something in the column has broken or come loose and the rod didn't pull the switch mechanism back up. Most likely, however, it's the solenoid stuck. Cheap and easy enough to just replace it. Mounted on the wheel well. It's the first thing the cable from the battery connects to.
|
|
|
Frank Swygert
|
|
|
|
|
74Javelin401
AMC Apprentice
Joined: Jan/19/2010 Location: BC, Canada Status: Offline Points: 39 |
Post Options
Thanks(0)
Quote Reply
Posted: Oct/14/2019 at 8:40pm |
|
Thanks all for your responses. Yesterday, the vehicle started well without trouble. I am of the opinion that Heavy is correct and helpful suggestion.
Tomorrow I am off to replace the solenoid. |
|
|
|
|
Heavy 488
AMC Addicted
Joined: Apr/27/2019 Location: In the Status: Offline Points: 3552 |
Post Options
Thanks(0)
Quote Reply
Posted: Oct/14/2019 at 8:44pm |
|
Solenoid is most likely just fine. Probably better than a new offshore replacement. New one would do the same on a bad battery or connection.
|
|
|
|
|
billd
Moderator Group 
Forum Administrator Joined: Jun/27/2007 Location: Iowa Status: Offline Points: 30894 |
Post Options
Thanks(0)
Quote Reply
Posted: Oct/14/2019 at 9:21pm |
|
Check battery voltage. Should be 12.6 volts. If it's not, it's not FULLY charged.
IF less than 12.6 put a good charger on it over night. Unplug and disconnect charger. Turn on headlights for 20 or 30 seconds to remove surface charge from battery. Check battery voltage again - if not 12.6 then you have a battery problem. |
|
|
|
|
Post Reply
|
|
Tweet
|
| Forum Jump | Forum Permissions You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to topics in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot create polls in this forum You cannot vote in polls in this forum |
Click for TheAMCForum Rules
Topic Options