Cadillac Repair: 1997 Catera power problem, proper battery, catera

Question
I recently purchased a 97 Catera from my friend.  I used to own this car before I sold it to him.  This car had no probs when it was sold.  He sold it back stating he couldnt get it to run.  I tried to start it and it sounded/acted like it was not getting enough power.  I opened the hood and the battery appears to have been changed to which I dont know if it is the correct one.  Would this prob occur with the wrong battery? Will buying the proper battery fix this?  Is there likely more damage?

Thanks,
Ken  

Answer
Hi Ken,

     If by not getting enough power you mean the engine turns over slowly then the problem could be a weak battery, corroded or loose battery cable ends at the battery, a loose battery cable on the starter or engine block or a defective starter that takes alot of power to turn and the battery barely has enough amperage to do that.

     I would start by measuring the voltage of the battery and make sure it has at least 12 volts and when cranking the engine it stays above 9.6 volts. If not charge it up and then try it again.

     You could take the Catera battery out and try the battery from another vehicle if it the same kind and see how the Catera engine turns over or install the Catera battery into the other vehicle and see if it turns over the same.

     Lastly take the starter out if it is accessible for you and take it to the parts store and have them test it. It might be a defective starter and buying a replacement and installing it might be all it needs.

     Of course there is always the option of towing the car to your mechanic so testing can be done and the correct part(s) replaced. Bill