S13KAE - won't start

[S13Grl]

Help! Just picked this up over the weekend, new starter, new battery, won't start without a jump. I checked all the relays and fuses and everything is fine. I haven't re-tested the battery since I put it in, but I can't get it started without a jump. I'm gonna replace the terminal connectors and all that jazz today, but should I look for something else?

Also, this is my first SOHC, I don't remember ever seeing this on any of my other 240s: the positive cable has three different cables coming out of it... is that supposed to be so or was something wired on that I should consider cleaning up?

Also - I drove it for a good half hour last night, and it definitely wasn't running on battery only. I think I'm pretty safe to eliminate the alternator... I hope.

Thanks!

[ThatGuy]

Sounds like it might just be the cables or the battery connections. I ditched the weak stock battery clamps, and threw on some aftermarket ones. That cured my problem right up. Have you tried just wiggling the cable's and then starting it, rather than jumping it? It could just be that putting the jumper cables on is making a better connection than the stock clamps. Good luck Irena.

[S13SilviaGirl]

Wow, Irena~how have you been? Def. get the cables/clamps checked out.

Take care!

[S13Grl]

I've tried moving it around, but that isn't getting me anywhere. I'm just gonna pay a visit to the electrical isle in the parts store and pick up some new terminals, connectors and bolts. I can't even begin to explain the corrosion that was on the old battery. And I can't really think of anything else... I kind of ghetto wired one of the wires into another because the connector had rusted and broken off due to the corrosion, so maybe that will help.

I'll run to the parts store in a bit and try that. If anyone else has any ideas, I'd greatly appreciate the input.

And thank you :) I'll need the luck. ;)

[SDS13COUPE]

Also - I drove it for a good half hour last night, and it definitely wasn't running on battery only. I think I'm pretty safe to eliminate the alternator... I hope

Don't hope, verify. If you got a multimeter you can make sure your alternator is good by checking battery voltage with the car running. It should read anywhere between 13.5-14.5v.
Also definetly look into your clamps/connectors. Poor contact can cause a no start. Good luck.:bigok:

['90RPS13]

I am with Barry. If you have a bunch of corrosion, I have had that prevent my car from starting. I would definately ditch the stock connectors and clean them thoroughly. Goodluck with your new KAE! *a

[drift freaq]

Welcome back Irena, it does sound like your connectors. From what it sounds like you have a handle on it already. Good luck with the new car, nice to see you posting again.

[S13Grl]

It was the connectors - I purchased new terminal connectors, bolts and new brass connectors, cut off all the corroded wires (yes, I did try cleaning both with baking soda and with coca cola) and now it's running great.

Thank you all for your advice, I'll have to post some pics of it soon.

:)

[ThatGuy]

Awesome Irena. Glad we could help. :rawk:

[S14DB]

MAG1 Super Penetrating Oil fixes all!

[ThatGuy]

MAG1 Super Penetrating Oil fixes all!

Hahahaha, I remember that picture now. :keke:

[infinitexsound]

clean the terminals and use petroleum jelly... to keep the terminals clean.....

[S14DB]

Hahahaha, I remember that picture now. :keke:
Yeah after I reminded you... :fawkd: