An Automotive Question

[FAX]

Okay. I purchased a '97 Corolla for 100 bucks cash money. I thought I got a great deal since one of the windows isn't cracked.

My plan was to clean the car up a tad and give it to one of the Sudanese Lost Boys with whom we work so he has transportation to and from his place of employment and school and stuff.

Anyhow, it needed a new battery which I bought and put in the place where the battery goes and hooked up the wire things that attach to the battery thing and, VOILA!!, it started up just fine and has been running really well. I had the fluids changed and stuff and all that.

Then, today, when I tried to start it up to take it to the church where I was planning to drop it off, it wouldn't start. There is electricity since there are lights and dings. But there is a "clicking" sound.

Solenoid?

FAX

Disclaimers: Sorry if repost.

[Donger]

Starter solenoid, starter cable loose or a bad starter.

[FAX]

Starter solenoid, starter cable loose or a bad starter.

Starter cable loose. Very possible.

FAX

[Sofa King]

Take the air out of the passenger side rear wheel and put it in the front drivers side wheel.

then swap windshield wipers and remove the hubcaps.


boom.

[FAX]

Oh ... it was really, really cold last night with lots of snow. Does that provide a clue?

FAX

[Sofa King]

on a serious note, just make sure the wires on the battery are tight.

[tooge]

FAX, I'm guessing a Sudanese guy can probably run faster than a 97 Corrolla. I'd sell it immediately and reinvest the 100 bucks in some good sprinting shoes. It'll help when gas is $5 a gallon.

[FAX]

on a serious note, just make sure the wires on the battery are tight.

Really? I mean, I got dash lights and dings when I inserted the key in the key place. I know that the positive battery cable is in suck mode due to age.

Could it be that the battery connection is causing clicks and no start?

FAX

[FAX]

FAX, I'm guessing a Sudanese guy can probably run faster than a 97 Corrolla. I'd sell it immediately and reinvest the 100 bucks in some good sprinting shoes. It'll help when gas is $5 a gallon.

ROFL

You're probably right.

FAX

[tooge]

Oh, and if that isn't gonna work, then get some ball bearings and some 320 or 321 wires. that should do it

[Donger]

Really? I mean, I got dash lights and dings when I inserted the key in the key place. I know that the positive battery cable is in suck mode due to age.

Could it be that the battery connection is causing clicks and no start?

FAX

It really doesn't take much juice to turn on the dash lights.

You DID clean up the clamps first, right?

[FAX]

It really doesn't take much juice to turn on the dash lights.

You DID clean up the clamps first, right?

What in the name of Mario Andretti's bung hole are the clamps?

FAX

[FAX]

I'm going to go try and find the starter cable and jiggle it. BRB.

FAX

[Reerun_KC]

Starter solenoid, starter cable loose or a bad starter.

This, check the battery wire down to the starter. Make sure they are tight on the starter and the wires on the solenoid are tight as well....

this sounds like a classic loose wire or bad solenoid...

[Donger]

What in the name of Mario Andretti's bung hole are the clamps?

FAX

The things on the end of the two wires going to the battery. If they have corrosion build-up on them, they need to be cleaned with a wire brush. It looks like white/green stuff. Any of this will make the connection between the battery terminals and the clamps bad.

[CrazyHorse]

Take the battery cables off and clean the cable ends and battery posts. Sounds like you might have an electrical arking problem. Happens all the time when a new battery is installed.

I know you said the lights work and all. But current to run lights and current to crank the engine are 2 different things. Its a free fix that is the culprit 80% of the time. If that dont work, try the solenoid next.

[FAX]

Nope. No joy.

Lights, dings, wipers work.

Turn the key and there is a dull clicking sound coming from the passenger side of the engine compartment. Guess I need to find a solenoid someplace and install it.

FAX

[FAX]

The things on the end of the two wires going to the battery. If they have corrosion build-up on them, they need to be cleaned with a wire brush. It looks like white/green stuff. Any of this will make the connection between the battery terminals and the clamps bad.

Nope. The clamps are clean. I don't think this is a battery issue. Unless, of course, there is insufficient battery power to start the car ... just enough to piss you off.

The funny thing is that it was really cold last night and now it won't start. Maybe no correlation, but it seems odd.

FAX

[Saulbadguy]

Have you attempted to jump start it? I've had a battery run down like that where it would still operate all the lights, wipers, etc but not start the car.

Could it be the alternator is not charging the battery properly? (bad alternator?)

I'm not good with any of this stuff, just throwing an idea out there.

[stevieray]

first check connection at battery. then battery positive cable to starter, battery negative cable to ground(usually to frame or motor) clean both terminals. hook positve cable up. put 5 buck testor light clamp on neg cable, touch other end to negative post on battery...if it lights up, you've got a drain on the battery. if not, hook neg cable up and try to start.

if you do get it started, pull positive cable off. if the altenator is bad, engine will die.

[Donger]

Nope. The clamps are clean. I don't think this is a battery issue. Unless, of course, there is insufficient battery power to start the car ... just enough to piss you off.

The funny thing is that it was really cold last night and now it won't start. Maybe no correlation, but it seems odd.

FAX

Have you tried jumping it?

[Saulbadguy]

The funny thing is that it was really cold last night and now it won't start. Maybe no correlation, but it seems odd.

FAX

One thing I do know a tad about is batteries. The cold will slow down the reaction in the battery and make it tougher to start, but the cold won't really hurt a battery like the heat does. Extreme heat will cause the plates in the cells to go bad, not the cold.

[FAX]

Take the battery cables off and clean the cable ends and battery posts. Sounds like you might have an electrical arking problem. Happens all the time when a new battery is installed.

I know you said the lights work and all. But current to run lights and current to crank the engine are 2 different things. Its a free fix that is the culprit 80% of the time. If that dont work, try the solenoid next.

Okay. That's worth one more try.

If I can jump it, that would prove it's the battery - or battery connections, right?

FAX

[FAX]

Have you tried jumping it?

Not yet.

I guess I just assumed that, since there were lights and dings, there was battery and the problem was elsewhere. I'll try a jump.

FAX

[SAUTO]

pm sent

[Donger]

Okay. That's worth one more try.

If I can jump it, that would prove it's the battery - or battery connections, right?

FAX

It would prove that your starter is fine, yes.

[Donger]

pm sent

LMAO

[FAX]

Okay. Back later.

Thanks, guys.

FAX

[Donger]

Okay. Back later.

Thanks, guys.

FAX

Sh*t. We should have told him NOT to place a wrench in between the battery terminals while holding it...

[Rooster]

Okay. Back later.

Thanks, guys.

FAX

Becareful FAX.

[Radar Chief]

Okay. That's worth one more try.

If I can jump it, that would prove it's the battery - or battery connections, right?

FAX

Didn’t you say you replaced the battery?
Being that old it’s possible that someone went monkeying with the wiring, possibly some high school kid trying to install a thump’n stereo, and created a current drain for you.
If you can jump it and it’ll start up then you might have bought a bad battery but more likely is that something is draining it.

[SAUTO]

LMAO

whats funny about that?

[Donger]

whats funny about that?

I just imagined that you were going to solve his problem for a flat fee or something.

[SAUTO]

I just imagined that you were going to solve his problem for a flat fee or something.

gotcha:thumb: nope just thought maybe i could help him

[Sofa King]

gotcha:thumb: nope just thought maybe i could help him

was it super secret information that noone else could see?

[SAUTO]

was it super secret information that noone else could see?

yeah, you want on my email list?

[SAUTO]

actually didnt think it would be a good idea to put my business phone # just out there buddy.

[kstater]

Okay. That's worth one more try.

If I can jump it, that would prove it's the battery - or battery connections, right?

FAX

No, it'd mean it's the the alternator.

[Radar Chief]

actually didnt think it would be a good idea to put my business phone # just out there buddy.

Understandable. I wouldn’t either.

[SAUTO]

Understandable. I wouldn’t either.


who knows what that would bring around hereROFL

[googlegoogle]

http://autos.yahoo.com/maintain/repairqa/transmission/ques035_4.html

http://www.2carpros.com/articles/rapid-clicking-sound-when-starter-is-used

I say battery or cables.

[cardken]

Come on guys, it's so simple maybe you need a refresher course. [leans arm on hot engine part, then jumps away] Heyya! It's all ball bearings nowadays. Now you prepare that Fetzer valve with some 3-in-1 oil and some gauze pads, and I'm gonna need 'bout ten quarts of anti-freeze, preferably Prestone. No, no make that Quaker State

[Sofa King]

yeah, you want on my email list?

My car is running just fine right now.

i have a crack in the windshield though, anything i can do to keep it from further cracking?

[WV]

http://www.hardwarestore.com/media/product/114460_multiple500_1.jpg

[Bwana]

Perhaps your Johnson Rod is worn out?


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[SAUTO]

My car is running just fine right now.

i have a crack in the windshield though, anything i can do to keep it from further cracking?

go to a glass shop and have it replaced. lol.

they might be able to repair it if it isnt too big

[NCarlsCorner2]

Oh ... it was really, really cold last night with lots of snow. Does that provide a clue?

FAX

Make sure the tailpipe is not covered with snow.ROFL

[Donger]

He's been gone an awfully long time.

[FAX]

Sorry that took so long. Lots going on.

Okay. It jumped. It took awhile, though.

Bad battery, maybe?

FAX

[Bwana]

Sorry that took so long. Lots going on.

Okay. It jumped. It took awhile, though.

Bad battery, maybe?

FAX

How did the cables look, good and tight?

[FAX]

How did the cables look, good and tight?

It's a very old car, Mr. Bwana. All the cables, electrical harness, etc. have seen better days. The battery cables aren't "great", but they're clean and the contacts with the battery seem stable.

I'm beginning to wonder if the problem may be the alternator or something. Like, maybe the battery isn't recharging while the engine is running.

Another question is the "clicking" I heard when I tried to start it earlier. Is that the solenoid? The starter? A relay switch?

This isn't a very complicated engine. It was built before they turned the whole damn thing into a gasoline-powered computer. I figure that, whatever the problem is, it ought to be fairly easy to fix.

FAX

[Gonzo]

Sounds like something is draining the battery. Bad diode maybe?

Alternator could definitely be an issue. Easy to replace but they're never cheap. Get a reman if you end up replacing it.
Posted via Mobile Device

[FAX]

Sounds like something is draining the battery. Bad diode maybe?

Alternator could definitely be an issue. Easy to replace but they're never cheap. Get a reman if you end up replacing it.
Posted via Mobile Device

Where is the bad diode located on a '97 Corolla?

FAX

[DeezNutz]

Losing money on the Lost Boy. Who'd have thunk it?

Precisely why I concentrate my charitable endeavors on the Found Boys.

[Radar Chief]

Where is the bad diode located on a '97 Corolla?

FAX

Its in the rectifier.
The rectifier is typically right in the alternator. If you suspect that's the issue the best thing to do is take it to your local O'Riellys and have them test it, which is free.

[FAX]

Losing money on the Lost Boy. Who'd have thunk it? :)

Dude, I bought a whole, entire car for 100 bucks. I could afford to spend another $5000 then drive the damn thing into the river and not lose a moment's sleep.

Actually, this whole thing is kind of interesting. I haven't worked on a car since I was a teenager and have absolutely no clue what I'm doing. It's kind of exciting. Or, at least it would be if I knew where the bad diode was.

FAX

[FAX]

Its in the rectifier.
The rectifier is typically right in the alternator. If you suspect that's the issue the best thing to do is take it to your local O'Riellys and have them test it, which is free.

So the bad diode's connected to the rectifier and the rectifier's connected to the alternator?

Got it.

FAX

[DeezNutz]

Dude, I bought a whole, entire car for 100 bucks. I could afford to spend another $5000 then drive the damn thing into the river and not lose a moment's sleep.

Actually, this whole thing is kind of interesting. I haven't worked on a car since I was a teenager and have absolutely no clue what I'm doing. It's kind of exciting. Or, at least it would be if I knew where the bad diode was.

FAX

Simma.

I............could afford to spend $5100 and drive it into a tree!!!

[FAX]

Simma.

I............could afford to spend $5100 and drive it into a tree!!!

Car insurance. It's a wonderful thing.

FAX

[Radar Chief]

So the bad diode's connected to the rectifier and the rectifier's connected to the alternator?

Got it.

FAX

A rectifier is a set of diodes, two for a half wave rectifier four for a full wave rectifier. It takes the Alternating Current, AC which is what your alternator produces, and turns it into Direct Current, DC which is what your battery needs to charge and your cars electronics need to run.
I'm not saying this is what it is, but it's a possible cause. You could also have a bad Voltage Regulator also.
You might just drive the car to O'Riellys with some tools on hand, that way if its something other than the rectifier you'll have the other parts on hand to test.

[FAX]

Back to the original problem before we were so rudely interrupted by Mr. DeezNutz ...

The clicking sound. Turn the key and "click, click, click". The sound seems to come from the engine compartment on the passenger side. Is that the starter trying to do something and not getting sufficient electricity? A relay switch? Solenoid?

Any ideas on this?

FAX

[FAX]

A rectifier is a set of diodes, two for a half wave rectifier four for a full wave rectifier. It takes the Alternating Current, AC which is what your alternator produces, and turns it into Direct Current, DC which is what your battery needs to charge and your cars electronics need to run.

Oh ... awesome. That makes perfect sense.

So a bad diode would be preventing the conversion process, right? And, if so, that would cause the battery to fail to charge from the alternator?

Would the bad diode also cause the starter to fail even though the battery had enough charge?

FAX

[DeezNutz]

Back to the original problem before we were so rudely interrupted by Mr. DeezNutz ...

The clicking sound. Turn the key and "click, click, click". The sound seems to come from the engine compartment on the passenger side. Is that the starter trying to do something and not getting sufficient electricity? A relay switch? Solenoid?

Any ideas on this?

FAX

My guess was starter. Here's what I've lifted from the intrawebz:

"Try honking your horn. If it's dead, then it's either your battery or alternator.

Get a boost from a friend. Drive around for a bit. Then shut the car off. If it starts again, replace the battery soon. If it doesn't start without a boost again, replace the alternator.

If your horn DOES work, replace the starter. the brushes will be worn causing that clicking sound."

[Hydrae]

The clicking most likely is indeed the solenoid trying to engage but since it doesn't have enough power it only gets part way there and then disengages thus making those sounds.

[PornChief]

if the lights and wipers work, then it's obviously not the battery, sounds like the starter motors dead. try tapping the starter motor with a hammer or big screwdriver then try it, if that works ( bearing inside it are worn, it gets stuck, tapping it frees it up), the starters fucked, but you can change one on most cars in less than an hour, 3 bolts, 2 wires, easy as shit.

[FAX]

My guess was starter. Here's what I've lifted from the intrawebz:

"Try honking your horn. If it's dead, then it's either your battery or alternator.

Get a boost from a friend. Drive around for a bit. Then shut the car off. If it starts again, replace the battery soon. If it doesn't start without a boost again, replace the alternator.

If your horn DOES work, replace the starter. the brushes will be worn causing that clicking sound."

Initially, the horn worked as did the dash lights, heater fan, wipers, etc. But no start. I think, though, that the starter is actually working or it wouldn't have jumped, right?

FAX

[Radar Chief]

So a bad diode would be preventing the conversion process, right? And, if so, that would cause the battery to fail to charge from the alternator? Possibly, could be a bad Voltage Regulator or bad brushes. It's hard to tell over the interweb like this.

Would the bad diode also cause the starter to fail even though the battery had enough charge? I'm doubting your starter is bad. I'm thinking its not charging the battery for whatever reason.

FAX

One way to tell, do you have a voltmeter?
With the engine off you should have around 12 VDC at the battery, with it running that voltage should jump to close to or even over 14 VDC.
:thumb:

[FAX]

The clicking most likely is indeed the solenoid trying to engage but since it doesn't have enough power it only gets part way there and then disengages thus making those sounds.

I'm thinking alternator now. Based on what you guys are saying. I don't think the battery is charging. I'm going to replace the alternator. It's right on top connected to the block with a few bolts and, of course, a belt.

I'll call a junkyard and see if I can find one. Then, I'll put that baby right in there.

FAX

[FAX]

if the lights and wipers work, then it's obviously not the battery, sounds like the starter motors dead. try tapping the starter motor with a hammer or big screwdriver then try it, if that works ( bearing inside it are worn, it gets stuck, tapping it frees it up), the starters ****ed, but you can change one on most cars in less than an hour, 3 bolts, 2 wires, easy as shit.

Awesome. Before changing the alternator, I shall bash the living crap out of my starter to see if that helps.

Any idea where the starter is on a '97 Corolla? Or, what it looks like, anyhow?

FAX

[Hydrae]

I'm thinking alternator now. Based on what you guys are saying. I don't think the battery is charging. I'm going to replace the alternator. It's right on top connected to the block with a few bolts and, of course, a belt.

I'll call a junkyard and see if I can find one. Then, I'll put that baby right in there.

FAX

Take it to a parts store, they can check the alternator while it is in the car for free. It only takes a couple of minutes and you will know for sure.

[FAX]

The clicking most likely is indeed the solenoid trying to engage but since it doesn't have enough power it only gets part way there and then disengages thus making those sounds.

I think I shall bash on the solenoid, too. I wonder what a solenoid actually does?

Is that part of the AC/DC conversion process deal?

FAX

[FAX]

Take it to a parts store, they can check the alternator while it is in the car for free. It only takes a couple of minutes and you will know for sure.

Good idea. I'll do that. Then begin bashing stuff.

FAX

[Hydrae]

I think I shall bash on the solenoid, too. I wonder what a solenoid actually does?

Is that part of the AC/DC conversion process deal?

FAX

No, it is the part that causes the starter to engage with the flywheel which then turns the engine over. I believe it is actually just a relay switch basically but I will leave that to one of the more informed mechanical people to explain.

[FAX]

One way to tell, do you have a voltmeter?
With the engine off you should have around 12 VDC at the battery, with it running that voltage should jump to close to or even over 14 VDC.
:thumb:

Nope. No voltmeter. The parts store guys will have one though, right?

FAX

[PornChief]

Awesome. Before changing the alternator, I shall bash the living crap out of my starter to see if that helps.

Any idea where the starter is on a '97 Corolla? Or, what it looks like, anyhow?

FAX

might need to do it 3 -5 times, just hit it fairly hard and try the key, if it suddenly turns over there's your problem. the starter motor's a cylinder shaped thing at the bottom of the engine near where it connects to the trans, follow the lead from the battery - connects to the solenoid ( the smaller cylinder shaped thing on top of the starter.

[Bwana]

Nope. No voltmeter. The parts store guys will have one though, right?

FAX

Indeed! Run it down there and have them do the free test for you Mr. FAX. It will save you from jumping off a cliff and perhaps a dip in the river for the car.

[FAX]

Great. Thanks, Mr. PornChief. Now, put some clothes on.

Guys, I want to thank all of you for your help on this. I'm pretty sure that we've narrowed down the problem to one of the following: Battery, Battery Cables, Alternator, Solenoid, Starter, Bad Diode, Rectifier, and/or Demonic Possession.

I'll start working through these issues this weekend and report back as events warrant. Based on your advice, though, I'm pretty sure I can get this issue isolated and repaired before something else breaks.

Seriously, thanks.

FAX

[Bwana]

Great. Thanks, Mr. PornChief. Now, put some clothes on.

Guys, I want to thank all of you for your help on this. I'm pretty sure that we've narrowed down the problem to one of the following: Battery, Battery Cables, Alternator, Solenoid, Starter, Bad Diode, Rectifier, and/or Demonic Possession.

I'll start working through these issues this weekend and report back as events warrant. Based on your advice, though, I'm pretty sure I can get this issue isolated and repaired before something else breaks.

Seriously, thanks.

FAX

Best of luck dude.

[RJ]

I was disappointed when I jumped from the starter to post #78, only to learn that nothing had been resolved. I was looking for instant closure. You guys will never land a gig writing sitcoms.

[Marcellus]

Start the car and pull the cable off the battery, if it dies the alternator is bad.

[FAX]

Start the car and pull the cable off the battery, if it dies the alternator is bad.

Very clever. Thanks, Mr. Marcellus. That's a great tip.

FAX

[stevieray]

Very clever. Thanks, Mr. Marcellus. That's a great tip.

FAX

...see post 20.

[FAX]

...see post 20.

I am embarrassed. I don't know how I missed that, Mr. stevieray. Sorry about that.

As punishment for my poor form, deplorable comprehension skills, and utterly obtuse behavior, prior to resuming work on the engine, I shall slam the car hood on my head three times in rapid succession. Unless, that is, I am rendered unconscious after slam one or slam two, in which case I think we should call it even.

FAX

[stevieray]

I am embarrassed. I don't know how I missed that, Mr. stevieray. Sorry about that.

As punishment for my poor form, deplorable comprehension skills, and utterly obtuse behavior, prior to resuming work on the engine, I shall slam the car hood on my head three times in rapid succession. Unless, that is, I am rendered unconscious after slam one or slam two, in which case I think we should call it even.

FAX

I believe the appropiate head banging should resemble wayne and garth's bohemian rhapsody guitar solo..after you get it figured out and are cruisng down the road...does the hundred buck car have tunes by chance?

[Bugeater]

After reading all your posts and giving the situation a very thorough analysis, I've come to the conclusion that your problem is one of the following: Battery, Battery Cables, Alternator, Solenoid, Starter, Bad Diode, Rectifier, and/or Demonic Possession.

[FAX]

I believe the appropiate head banging should resemble wayne and garth's bohemian rhapsody guitar solo..after you get it figured out and are cruisng down the road...does the hundred buck car have tunes by chance?

LOL.

No, the radio is shot to hell. It's still in the dash, but the knobs are all broken or missing. I have another radio/cassette player that I took out of another car many years ago ... have no idea why I hung onto it, but now that you mention it, I could slam that puppy in the dash. That's a very good idea.

Honestly, this car is a disaster ... from an aesthetic point of view. Cracked windows, shot paint, dents, upholstery rips, etc. Good tires, though, and it does run pretty darn well ... when it starts.

FAX

[stevieray]

LOL.

No, the radio is shot to hell. It's still in the dash, but the knobs are all broken or missing. I have another radio/cassette player that I took out of another car many years ago ... have no idea why I hung onto it, but now that you mention it, I could slam that puppy in the dash. That's a very good idea.

Honestly, this car is a disaster ... from an aesthetic point of view. Cracked windows, shot paint, dents, upholstery rips, etc. Good tires, though, and it does run pretty darn well ... when it starts.

FAX

do it! tunes will give it a heart and make you forget it needs lipstick and rouge.

:rockon:

[joesomebody]

LOL.

No, the radio is shot to hell. It's still in the dash, but the knobs are all broken or missing. I have another radio/cassette player that I took out of another car many years ago ... have no idea why I hung onto it, but now that you mention it, I could slam that puppy in the dash. That's a very good idea.

Honestly, this car is a disaster ... from an aesthetic point of view. Cracked windows, shot paint, dents, upholstery rips, etc. Good tires, though, and it does run pretty darn well ... when it starts.

FAXHope the windshield isn't cracked too bad. It won't pass inspection (unless you know a mechanic who has a kind heart and a liberal pencil). The Windshield replacement is going to be quite a bit more than the 100 bucks you've invested so far.

[Bugeater]

Hope the windshield isn't cracked too bad. It won't pass inspection (unless you know a mechanic who has a kind heart and a liberal pencil). The Windshield replacement is going to be quite a bit more than the 100 bucks you've invested so far.
I'm not sure how many states even have inspections any more, Nebraska stopped doing them back in the 70s.

[joesomebody]

I'm not sure how many states even have inspections any more, Nebraska stopped doing them back in the 70s.
From Wikipedia: 18 states have a periodic (annual or biannual) safety inspection program, while Maryland requires an inspection prior to registration or transfer of ownership only.

Missouri does, required before you can renew your license plate tags. I had no idea that some (the majority) of states don't require this. Must be nice...

[KurtCobain]

Yeah, I had no clue that there are places that don't require inspection before you can get tags. That's like a crazy dream.

[Bugeater]

From Wikipedia: 18 states have a periodic (annual or biannual) safety inspection program, while Maryland requires an inspection prior to registration or transfer of ownership only.

Missouri does, required before you can renew your license plate tags. I had no idea that some (the majority) of states don't require this. Must be nice...
It is nice, but the trade-off is you end up with every pile of shit with wheels out on the road.

[Bugeater]

Yeah, I had no clue that there are places that don't require inspection before you can get tags. That's like a crazy dream.
Oh, and the other trade-off is you have to live in a state like Nebraska or Iowa. Is it really worth that?

[FAX]

I don't think that Tennessee has some kind of "window" safety inspection deal.

We have an emissions testing thing that costs 12 bucks and you can't get tags without passing. This car passed that test. They said absolutely nothing about the windows, though.

Besides, the front windshield is pretty okay. Three of the other windows are either cracked or the mechanics that make them go up and down (they were originally automatic) are busted so they don't work. Oh ... and the sun roof is cracked all to hell and gone. Like somebody rolled the car at one point.

FAX

[FAX]

It is nice, but the trade-off is you end up with every pile of shit with wheels out on the road.

Hey!!!

Throttle back there a little there some there, buster. I'll bet I get more miles per 100 dollars worth of car than you could ever imagine in your most bug eating dreams.

FAX

[Bugeater]

That's strange, I thought the only window that was capable of cracking was the windshield, and that's because it's safety glass. The rest of them normally shatter instead of cracking.

[FAX]

That's strange, I thought the only window that was capable of cracking was the windshield, and that's because it's safety glass. The rest of them normally shatter instead of cracking.

Nope. I have cracks.

FAX

[Bugeater]

Hey!!!

Throttle back there a little there some there, buster. I'll bet I get more miles per 100 dollars worth of car than you could ever imagine in your most bug eating dreams.

FAX
Not if you can't get the damn thing started.

[FAX]

Not if you can't get the damn thing started.

Temporary setback. Once I repair the Battery, Battery Cables, Solenoid, Starter, Alternator, Reflexonator, a couple of Bad Diodes and find a Priest who can deal with some of the other issues, she'll be just fine.

FAX

[FAX]

Hey guys ...

Why do you suppose it is that Mr. Bugeater hates my car so much? Is there something hidden deep in his subconscious mind that fosters this undeserved and rampant animosity? Some childhood event, mayhaps? Or, perhaps, something having to do with a woman? Or, perhaps, an armadillo? Perhaps an albino armadillo? Perhaps an orphaned, angry albino armadillo in Mr. Bugeater's past whose tragic memory sponsors hatred toward my car?

FAX

[KurtCobain]

Hey guys ...

Why do you suppose it is that Mr. Bugeater hates my car so much? Is there something hidden deep in his subconscious mind that fosters this undeserved and rampant animosity? Some childhood event, mayhaps? Or, perhaps, something having to do with a woman? Or, perhaps, an armadillo? Perhaps an albino armadillo? Perhaps an orphaned, angry albino armadillo in Mr. Bugeater's past whose tragic memory sponsors hatred toward my car?

FAX

Is Bugeaters hatred toward your car keeping you up at night, FAX?

[FAX]

Is Bugeaters hatred toward your car keeping you up at night, FAX?

Well ... come to think of it ... so far, it is.

FAX

[KurtCobain]

Well ... come to think of it ... so far, it is.

FAX

Then you'd better just drive that car up to Nebraska and figure out what his problem is in person.

Or, um, I guess push it up there?

[FAX]

Nebraska ... let's see ... that's the gateway to South Dakota, right?

FAX

[FAX]

I have to get back to my Moon research now.

Meanwhile, thanks again, guys. For all the help and all.

Hopefully, I can get this figured out this weekend and get the car delivered. When I do, I'll tell James (that's the adopted name of this particular Lost Boy) what you guys did for him. With any luck, he'll become a Chiefs fan and write letters home and before you know it the entire new country of Sudan will all be Chiefs fans and we can recruit somebody from down there who can block a field goal.

FAX

[Sofa King]

Nebraska ... let's see ... that's the gateway to South Dakota, right?

FAX

Nebraska is considered a fly by state. Everyone flys by it trying to get to South Dakota where all the GOOD corn is.

[Sofa King]

Oh, and worthless without pics. (of the car)

[KCHawg]

Can't believe no one has stated the obvious....antifreeze!

[Hydrae]

Not if you can't get the damn thing started.

I bet he could push start it if he had to.

[SAUTO]

My guess was starter. Here's what I've lifted from the intrawebz:

"Try honking your horn. If it's dead, then it's either your battery or alternator.

Get a boost from a friend. Drive around for a bit. Then shut the car off. If it starts again, replace the battery soon. If it doesn't start without a boost again, replace the alternator.

If your horn DOES work, replace the starter. the brushes will be worn causing that clicking sound."

nope, not even close tpo being an accurate test

[DeezNutz]

nope, not even close tpo being an accurate test

Intrawebz fail. But, honestly, can we really trust a poster named JasonAuto? This "Auto" thing might all be a front.

[Donger]

I bet he could push start it if he had to.

My car has a manual tranny, and the battery on it recently died. So, I tried to push/roll start it. I guess that fancy newer cars don't allow you to do that, since I ended up in the middle of my street looking very stupid...

I drove my 1978 Triumph Spitfire for six months without a starter back in the day.

[SAUTO]

Intrawebz fail. But, honestly, can we really trust a poster named JasonAuto? This "Auto" thing might all be a front.

Yes it might all be a front BUT since my name i JASONSAUTO i think we are all rightROFL

[DeezNutz]

Yes it might all be a front BUT since my name i JASONSAUTO i think we are all rightROFL

How much is your friend Jason paying you to pimp his company?

[Dayze]

How much is your friend Jason paying you to pimp his company?

:LOL:

[Donger]

Yes it might all be a front BUT since my name i JASONSAUTO i think we are all rightROFL

Do modern cars with ECUs prevent bump starting?

[SAUTO]

How much is your friend Jason paying you to pimp his company?

not enough

[SAUTO]

Do modern cars with ECUs prevent bump starting?

no. but there HAS to be some power, the batterycant be totally dead

[Radar Chief]

Do modern cars with ECUs prevent bump starting?

Most auto electronics need ~9.5 VDC or better to consistently run.
A starter can run on that if it has enough current but typically when a 12 VDC battery that is run down to under 10 VDC doesn’t have enough current capacity to spin a starter.

[SAUTO]

Most auto electronics need 9.5 VDC or better to consistently run.
A starter can run on that if it has enough current but typically when a 12 VDC battery that is run down to under 10 VDC doesn’t have enough current capacity to spin a starter.

he meant to say push started

[Radar Chief]

he meant to say push started

Yes, I know what he meant.
My point is that if a battery is run down to less than ~9.5 VDC the electronics (ignition, injection computer or ECU) won’t run so it won’t bump start.
In other words what you said with a little more detail. ;)

[Donger]

no. but there HAS to be some power, the batterycant be totally dead

Well, it was completely dead. Not even a clickey click. Voltmeter showed 11.4 VDC.

[Radar Chief]

Well, it was completely dead. Not even a clickey click. Voltmeter showed 11.4 VDC.

Really? That should be plenty to run the pump, pressurize the injection system and run the electronics. I’m not sure why you wouldn’t be able to bump start that, short of some wiring issue.
Wait, was that with the ignition on or off?

[Donger]

Really? That should be plenty to run the pump, pressurize the injection system and run the electronics. I’m not sure why you wouldn’t be able to bump start that, short of some wiring issue.
Wait, was that with the ignition on or off?

LMAO

It was on.

[SAUTO]

Yes, I know what he meant.
My point is that if a battery is run down to less than ~9.5 VDC the electronics (ignition, injection computer or ECU) won’t run so it won’t bump start.
In other words what you said with a little more detail. ;)

ok got ya.

i usually try to "dumb it down" so people dont think i'm trying to bullshit them.


dazzle them with brillance or baffle them with bullshit.

[Radar Chief]

LMAO

It was on.

:spock: You’re battery can have a dead cell and still read 11VDC with no load then drop down below 9VDC with the ignition on, or when it has a load.

[Donger]

:spock: You’re battery can have a dead cell and still read 11VDC with no load then drop down below 9VDC with the ignition on, or when it has a load.

Sorry, I thought you were asking whether or not I had the ignition on when I tried to bump start it, not when I read the volts.

When I read the volts, the ignition was off.

Good point.

[Radar Chief]

ok got ya.

i usually try to "dumb it down" so people dont think i'm trying to bullshit them.


dazzle them with brillance or baffle them with bullshit.

Sorry, I thought you were asking whether or not I had the ignition on when I tried to bump start it, not when I read the volts.

When I read the volts, the ignition was off.

Good point.

My bad guys. Sometimes I just assume people are on my same wavelength and rattle on as if they are. I’m the same in person, if it helps any.

[Sofa King]

sounds like fax needs to keep buying $100 cars until one works.

[R8RFAN]

Okay. I purchased a '97 Corolla for 100 bucks cash money. I thought I got a great deal since one of the windows isn't cracked.

My plan was to clean the car up a tad and give it to one of the Sudanese Lost Boys with whom we work so he has transportation to and from his place of employment and school and stuff.

Anyhow, it needed a new battery which I bought and put in the place where the battery goes and hooked up the wire things that attach to the battery thing and, VOILA!!, it started up just fine and has been running really well. I had the fluids changed and stuff and all that.

Then, today, when I tried to start it up to take it to the church where I was planning to drop it off, it wouldn't start. There is electricity since there are lights and dings. But there is a "clicking" sound.

Solenoid?

FAX

Disclaimers: Sorry if repost.

probably a bad spot on the starter.... have someone tap the starter while trying to start it...

If thats the problem , it will only get worse, replace starter asap

[Extra Point]

Clean all the grounds (- connected wire ends), first, with steel brush/ steel wool/100 grit sandpaper. That should hopefully clear it up, or, at least, assist you in the process. Numerous troubles with 10+ yr old vehicles, over the years, in my cases with VWs and Fords, have be found with corroded ground connections, including that to the PCM (Powertrain Control Module- i.e, computer).

Bonne chance, Messieur Fax.

[crispystl]

Just jump it and let it run. If it's the alternator it will die eventually right? The clicking .. cars always click when they don't have enough battery to start them. Just my opinion. I have had plenty of pieces of shit cars before lol