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Thread: Intermittent problem starting

  1. #1
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    Intermittent problem starting

    Hi all,
    I have a Roadster with a Gen 3 Coyote and TKX. All new parts with about 100 miles on the odometer. I have recently noticed that on occasion I turn the key and it cranks for about two seconds and then stops cranking. Fortunately each time this has happened I have been able to turn the key to the off position and try again and on the second attempt it cranks until the engine kicks over. When cranking it sounds strong. The battery is fully charged and it has happened when the engine was both hot and cold. I originally thought that I may have not had the clutch in far enough to activate the clutch safety switch, but have since confirmed that this was not the case (it happened with the clutch pedal all the way to the firewall). Any thoughts on where to start with diagnostics?
    As always, much appreciated.
    Tony

  2. #2
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    Are this issues occurring on hot and/or cold starts?
    20th Anniversary Mk IV, A50XS Coyote, TKO 600, Trunk Drop Box, Trunk Battery Box, Cubby Hole, Seat Heaters, Radiator hanger and shroud.

  3. #3
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    Quote Originally Posted by Railroad View Post
    Are this issues occurring on hot and/or cold starts?
    Yes, it has happened when the engine is both hot and cold.

  4. #4
    FFR MKIII builder/owner
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    Sounds more like an intermittent connection problem in the crank circuit.

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  6. #5
    Senior Member Nigel Allen's Avatar
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    1. to eliminate an issue with the starter motor, run a test light from the starter solenoid terminal.

    2. are you using the neutral safety switch? If so, check for correct adjustment / operation.
    Mk.4 FFR supplied Right hand drive
    Received 12/2012 completed 12/2019
    Gen1 Coyote / TKO600 / IRS
    Lots of mods to make compliant for Australian design rules

  7. #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by Nigel Allen View Post
    1. to eliminate an issue with the starter motor, run a test light from the starter solenoid terminal.

    2. are you using the neutral safety switch? If so, check for correct adjustment / operation.
    Thanks Nigel.
    I'll start with checking to make sure the neutral safety switch is adjusted properly as this was what I had originally thought was the likely cause. I have doubts though because when I turn the key off and back on I do not release the clutch pedal and push it back in. I keep the clutch pedal all the way to the floor and on the second turn of the key it works.
    If all looks good there then I will try your first suggestion.
    Thanks again,
    Tony

  8. #7
    Senior Member Lidodrip's Avatar
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    Might be the ignition switch since that is what you are manipulating to get it to eventually start.

    James
    Mk4 Roadster #9974 - Picked Up 1/2021. Complete kit, Gen 2 Ford Coyote / TKX, IRS. Completed 9/2023

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  10. #8
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    Quote Originally Posted by Lidodrip View Post
    Might be the ignition switch since that is what you are manipulating to get it to eventually start.

    James
    That thought had crossed my mind as well. The wiring behind the dash is so tight, maybe there is an issue there. I will check it out. Thank you!

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  12. #9
    Senior Member Nigel Allen's Avatar
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    Sticky starter solenoid is highly possible. Starter will not get power, unless solenoid pulls all the way in.
    Mk.4 FFR supplied Right hand drive
    Received 12/2012 completed 12/2019
    Gen1 Coyote / TKO600 / IRS
    Lots of mods to make compliant for Australian design rules

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