Different starter for Triumphs?

My GT6+ has a slow start problem when the engine is cold. It's not the battery, which is in good condition. The starter turns over VERY slowly, and the colder the outside temp, the slower it turns. Yesterday, it simply wouldn't turn fast enough to start the engine. I've got to fix this ASAP.

I assume this is a starter problem, since these old Trimuph starters are of a primitive design. And, I' reluctant to purchase a rebuilt Lucas replacement for the above reason.

Question: besides a $300 "gear reduction" starter, are there other makes that will easily fit a GT6? I've heard of an Isuzu Trooper starter but don't have further info about it.

Your input is appreciated!

Hallo VAGT6,

are you sure that all is well with the battery\starter motor\engine to frame connections?
I have a 2.5 P.I. Triumph (9.5:1 compression) which has no problems turning over in the coldest of UK temperatures. (It is not garaged)

Alec

I've checked the connections with a voltmeter, they seem to be good. I'll check them again to be sure though. Thanks for the excellent sugggestion!

Hello VAGT6,
As you have one, be sure to do the checks on load as this will be far more useful.
Good luck.

Alec

Make sure you check the grounding, as it is often a source of problems in these cars. If the starter is getting good voltage, make sure it can 'get rid of it' too. Check the connections on the engine block to body ground, as well as the starter to motor ground (i.e. the face of the starter and where it contacts the motor). This will often cure the problem.

It's worse in cold weather because all batteries produce fewer amps at lower temperatures, so there's less 'oomph' to overcome resistance in the grounds.

If you want to convert the starter to the Isuzu unit, I highly recommend it. It is a direct bolt in. I did that with my GT6, and the unit turns the engine much more smartly. Being right under the exhaust manifold, the Prince of Darkness starters tend to cook over the years, and corrosion on the grounds is accelerated.

For info on the conversion, check out https://www.triumphspitfire.com/substitute.html . There's more than enough info to do the conversion.

Eric and gang, thanks for these excellent suggestions. I'm compelled to try the Isuzu conversion since the closest alternative is a $180 gear reduction starter.

Has anyone else tried this Isuzu/GT6 starter project? If so, please let us know how the installation went, photos, etc.

Thanks!

Is it a specific Isuzu, Or are all the starters the same? Zer

The information I have seen is the starter is for an Isuzu Trooper II 2.6l motor. Details of the conversion are at https://www.triumphspitfire.com/substitute.html