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Expert
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Location: Fairfax, Minnesota | It seems as if a heat soaked starter is one of the most offered diagnosis. How can I troubleshoot the problem without jumping to "replace the sarter"?. Finding a starter for a 361 may not be a simple search based on what NAPA and other vendors found out- right after they told me to buy a new starter from them."Oops, I guess we don't sell those". Thanks Ray |
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Expert
Posts: 3402
Location: Chestertown, NY ( near Lake George) | Obviously start with a battery load test, good cables and connections, good engine grounds. Proper base timing of course, then you need to see how many amps the starter draws when the problem occurs. Any good electrical rebuilding shop can beef up that starter if necessary. |
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Expert
Posts: 2490
Location: Kansas City, KS | Shep comments are great advice. Never underestimate the necessity of a good set of battery cables. Don't use a cable with those clamp on terminal ends either.
I had a starting problem similar to that on one of my Imperials.
Occasionally when cold but much more frequent after driving 15 or 20 minutes it would barely crank and act like the battery was practically dead.
It turned out to be a bad starter relay on the fenderwell. When it was acting up, I could arc across the relay with a screwdriver and it would crank normal. |
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Expert
Posts: 1493
Location: Jamaica Plain, MA | I'd think your starter is tired. Metal expands under heat and that changes tolerances. This is another example where the year, make and model make this question easier to answer. A good shop should be able to test your starter for free, or maybe $30. It's 3 bolts, mate. Take it out and either have it tested and/or refurbished,or replace it. If you want a cheaper route (less reliable) buy a used one from one of the trusted vendors on here. A used one with shipping should be less than $100 with no guarantee. If your car is pre-1962 you'll need a parted one or to have your's rebuilt If you have a pre 62 361, I probably have one for you. PM me or talk to the master-- John Fowlie. |
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Expert 5K+
Posts: 8948
 
Location: WHEELING,WV.>>>HOME OF WWVA | is it timed to spec -----------------------------------------------later |
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Slow cranking when engine is in normal heat range
