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MGB MGB engine starting problems

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Rick31

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Andy ideas on why my MGB Roadster is not starting??

When you turn the key all you get is a clicking noise. Seems like some sort of electrical problem.

The battery is new and I have fitted a new ignition coil just in case that was the problem but no joy (aarghh!)

Would welcome any ideas at all

many thanks
 
DrEntropy

DrEntropy

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Welcome to the Forum Rick31!

If you've got a "rat-tat-tat-" type of clicking it would be likely the starter motor is the problem. If it's just one "click" per turn of the key and nothing after, it may be the relay or the solenoid. If you have a second pair of hands, get yer cricket bat and THUMP the starter motor solidly (in NEUTRAL please!) as the other person energises the starter. If it spins up then, the starter motor is definitely the problem.

Sounds daft but it works.
 
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Rick31

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Thanks for that. Just trying to source one now. Noticed on a forum that the part is a common part and should be quite cheap! Noticed in the engine that there are two of these black boxes. Should it be easy to determine which is the starter relay?

Thanks for your help

Rick
 
DrEntropy

DrEntropy

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Wire colour will be the giveaway: Whichever one has the connection with the same colour as the starter and a white/red is the starter relay.
 
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Rick31

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Thanks.

The sound is just one single click when I turn the key so possibly a relay problem?

Any idea of costs for this part normally so that I don't get ripped off by any dealers?
 
DrEntropy

DrEntropy

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Not a clue what it'd be in UK. Something below $50US. It may be MUCH less there.
 
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Rick31

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Another question if anyone can help....

Attached to the fixing bracket of my ignition coil is a small oval box with a wire coming from it which in my MGB (1980 model) just hangs loose and is not attached to anything.

Wondered if anyone know what it is and if it is supposed to be connected to anything?
 
DrEntropy

DrEntropy

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Could this be a condensor for RF suppression? I don't recall that from your description.... mebbe post a photo?
 
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