s13 problem: starter or alternator?? video inside

[badass8]

For one day I didn't drive my s13 and I go to start it the next morning the battery is completely dead... I don't know how but it was dead.

So I get the battery recharged all the way and go to start it and the volts are at 12.5 then as I crank it, it makes a grinding sound and then the volts go to about 7.9 (not enough to start)

So here's a video on what it sounds like... Appreciate the help.

031.mp4 video by pballa88 - Photobucket (http://s263.photobucket.com/albums/ii131/pballa88/?action=view&current=031.mp4)

[2.5T_/<ouki]

Have you tried to start your car with a jump?

[badass8]

yes doesn't really make a difference if anything it goes to 8.5ish volts when i crank it.

[Darren]

check all your grounds, i had a similar problem and it turned out to be the main battery ground not getting enough connection...

[richman189]

pull the starter to get it tested and look for shorts going to the alt and the fuse box

[2.5T_/<ouki]

pull the starter to get it tested and look for shorts going to the alt and the fuse box


I wouldn't start unbolting things just yet.
You can get a multimeter and check the signal wire that goes to the starter while you turn the ignition to start. It is supposed to see +12v.

Also, do as Darren suggested by checking your grounds.

[badass8]

ok great thanks. checked grounds that wasn't the problem. Think I'll just have to get the alternator and starter rebuilt...

[army240]

Get your battery tested... seem to me like there is some bad cells in it!

Frank

[rcdad123]

sounds like your starter is pulling too much amps. i think you need a stater.

[280zx2by2]

You can have a battery with a bad cell and if you are using cheap pumper cables or a car with a battery with not enough CCA then the car is not going to start with a jump.

Your alternator has nothing to do with your situation.

Assuming its not a wiring issue its either the battery or the starter solenoid.