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Diagnosis Help

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lostdog

Freshman Member
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I have a 1980 MG that wont start. A few days before when starting I noticed that each time I would have to let off the key for it to fire. Engine turns fine but wouldt start untill I backed off a bit. (maybe somethin in the key assembly)

The battery is fully charged.
I can turn the engin by placine s screw driver on the starter.

Maybe the starter?
Maybe the key assembly?

Any ideas on where to start?

Thanks in advance for your help.
 
Could be a drop in voltage going to the coil due to a weakening connection.
 
The problem is almost certainly in the starter switch itself. The switch itself is a separate component of the key assembly. You will need to remove the column covers to get to it.
 
clean the contacts on the two relays on the passenger side fender, also.
 
Barry,

You win the prize. I just removed the colum cover and it sparked as it fell out. The plastic housing was broken. Im looking for the part with no luck. It that exactly what it is called, a starter switch?

Where would I find a replacement?

Live in Virginia
 
There was a prize?!?!


....rats.....


:jester:


The white switch can be had thru Moss Motors or Victoria British, our resident dealer for both is Tony "The Autoist" here on the BCF.
 
You can buy the switch from any of the popular sources such as Moss. The Moss part number is 263-690 on page 42 of their current catalog. Not cheap at $63.95!

I have already replaced mine twice, and if it goes again I may well convert to a push-button start arrangement.
 
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