Ignition click

mike rigg

Member
hi, I'm a new member and have just acquired a series 2 p6 3500 auto. It's starting to give me starting problems. When I turn on the ignition it just goes click, turn off turn on again and maybe click or the car starts. New battery so leads all ok, is this a sign of starter/solenoid problems. Ta Mike
 
There is a relay in the starter circuit, which is what's making the click. Check the connections between this and the solenoid. If that's ok then it does sound like the starter or solenoid. A good auto electrician should be able to overhaul it for a reasonable price.
 
There is a relay in the starter circuit, which is what's making the click. Check the connections between this and the solenoid. If that's ok then it does sound like the starter or solenoid. A good auto electrician should be able to overhaul it for a reasonable price.
I would add if you can get a helper when it doesn't start try using a broomstick to tap the housing of the starter motor while someone turns the key. If it starts then you can almost be sure its the starter/solenoid.
 
I would add if you can get a helper when it doesn't start try using a broomstick to tap the housing of the starter motor while someone turns the key. If it starts then you can almost be sure its the starter/solenoid.
Thanks all, I'll check the wiring between the relay and starter/solinoid tomorrow. Can the relay be a problem?
 
Relay certainly can be a problem - I had the same symptoms, was sure it was starter/solenoid related - in fact it turned out to be an aging 3RA relay.....
 
Relay certainly can be a problem - I had the same symptoms, was sure it was starter/solenoid related - in fact it turned out to be an aging 3RA relay.....
Thanks, maybe I should change the relay first before taking out the starter motor. Are they available, where is it in the car.
 
I'm going to change the starter and relay plus I am going to change the ignition switch which seems a bit dodgy anyway. How do you get the switch out?
 
I notice yours is an Auto, just wondering if the inhibiter switch in the gearbox is faulty, if you move the gear lever about , does it make any difference. Ignition switch is held into the back column lock by a small grubscrew in the side , switch will then pull out.
 
Hi, no the gear lever is ok. Is it that simple to get the ignition switch out, looking at the workshop manual it looks like you need special tools. My switch does incorporate a steering lock does that make a difference? Thanks
 
Thanks, maybe I should change the relay first before taking out the starter motor. Are they available, where is it in the car.
On my car the relay is located on the right inner wing close to the scuttle - (I think its actually a 6RA not 3RA) - I don't have the specific part number but you should have no trouble locating one there - I got mine from the U.K. - can't recall where...
 
Hi Mike, the 3RA relay you might be able to get from "Holden vintage & classic" (e-mail:- sales@holden.co.uk) phone number 01885 488000.
The ignition switch if I remember correctly, you will need to drill the two bolts and use an extractor to remove the studs (when these were put together they used bolts that when tightened the heads sheared off for security) a new switch should contain new bolts that when you tighten them the heads shear off again. Good luck
DAV8
Dave
 
The switch will come out of the steering lock, by releasing the screw in the side retaining it. If you can access the screw there is no need to take the lock off the column . I cannot get at mine to look. Part is 586750 on a 2200, (I haven't a p6B parts book) , same as used on some MG's
 
You could also cut slots in sheared bolts with Dremel type tool then use a screwdriver to remove them. There are 2 small phillips screws that hold the switch to the barrel. Not easy to get at in situ. You will need to drop steering column slightly to remove complete switch. Sounds a lot of work but doesn't take long. It will take a lot longer if you drop the little screws. Don't ask how I know!
 
I tend to think that the relay is working fine and the problem is a sticky solenoid. I have experienced the same over the years, turning the key only to hear the latching of the relay. Lay underneath, give the solenoid a couple of quick sharp blows with a rubber mallet or piece of wood. Turn the key and the engine fires, no more problems. Granted the solenoid probably needs an overhaul, but it is not something that happens on a regular basis, so I will get around to it one day.

Ron.
 
Back
Top