1974 Super Beetle - Not Starting (Sometimes)

[Sluggo]

Sometimes the Beetle just doesn't want to start. It only happens when it has sat for several hours or more, and not always. It's not a hot-start problem because it only happens when cold. It doesn't even crank. Give it a minute or two or 30 and it starts fine. I checked the seat belt relay and it is missing and replaced by a jumper wire. New battery, cable and ground strap.

Any ideas?

[vwlover77]

Have you done the "whack the starter" trick to see if that "fixes" it? It sounds just like the problem I had with my '71 Beetle a few years back. A new starter was the cure in that case. Apparently, they develop dead or weak spots in the commutator/brush contacts and heat makes the situation much worse.

[hambone]

Sounds like either a short, the starter, or the electrical ignition switch behind the key. Probably the starter though.

[Sluggo]

they develop dead or weak spots in the commutator/brush contacts and heat makes the situation much worse.

Heat makes mine better. The problem only happens when cold and it hasn't been started in several hours.

[vwlover77]

I misread that part. Weird, but I'm still betting on the starter itself.

[Sluggo]

Sounds like either a short, the starter, or the electrical ignition switch behind the key. Probably the starter though.

The PO (whom I've discovered is a complete liar) said the ignition switch was new, and it does seem new. The key is new and different from the rest.

How do you test a starter? I've heard most places can't test VW starters. I know I couldn't get my alternator tested.

[dingo]

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticle ... r_diag.htm

[Sluggo]

Here's a weird symptom that just started yesterday. When I start the car while warm the starter will sometimes stop mid crank. It cranks good and strong but will just stop until I turn the key again.

I'll be under the Beetle tomorrow checking all of the connections to the starter.

[Amskeptic]

Here's a weird symptom that just started yesterday. When I start the car while warm the starter will sometimes stop mid crank. It cranks good and strong but will just stop until I turn the key again.

I'll be under the Beetle tomorrow checking all of the connections to the starter.

Be careful with the posts where the starter motor and battery cables attach. Often people (maroons) will over-tighten the 13mm nuts and damage the connections inside of the solenoid. Snug but not crazy, clean clean clean. Check the ground between the engine/transaxle and the body of the car.
Colin

[Sluggo]

Starter is a brand new Bosch. New battery cable too. Original ignition wire had a dirty connector. I slid the connector on & off several times to scrape off the crud and haven't had any problems since. I'll get under there and scrape it clean later when I have the car jacked up. It's kind of hard to work under a Beetle when it's on the ground and you have to suck in your chest to fit underneath.