Land Rover Repair: Ignition / Electrical, paul macey, starter solenoid

Question
Hi John,

I've got a strange one.

I go to start the engine

I turn the key (keeping it pushed forward)

....nothing....

then  after a second or two
(still with the key in the start position)

I hear a buzzing of what sounds like a relay in the console behind the steering wheel.

Then maybe after one to 10 more times at trying to start her she starts no problem. Sometimes she starts on the first try.

What are your thoughts?

Thanks in advance,

Paul Macey
Melbourne Australia


Answer
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Paul, I forgot to mention how to determine if you are having a starter problem or a spider problem:

The spider controls if, when and how the vehicle starts.  ALSO, it is also possible that you are having starter motor/solenoid trouble.  When your Disco won't start, you could remove the lead wire from the starter solenoid and measure the voltage with a multimeter.  If there is 12 volts present on the lead wire then you have a starter problem.  If there is less or none then the possiblity of the 'spider' causing the trouble has just increased.  I've never worked on the spider so I would suggest you take it to the dealer.  Starters should be easy to swap out by any DIY'er or a general mechanic.  - JohnMc

###############   END followup ####################


Hi Paul,

this is a strange one...but then again...most LR problems are.

It could be as simple as a short in the ignition barrel wiring.  You mention a sound from the steering column when this problem appears.

Other problem areas could be the immobiliser "spider" that is acting up.  The spider takes the signal from the ignition barrel and then allows the engine ignition system to activate.  One owner has stated that this alarm spider can prevent the proper voltage from triggering the starter motor.  The only way to tell would be to remove the unit (found in central dashboard) and verify that the soldered joints are all good.  They can crack over time.

So, first step (and less costly) is to determine if you are getting any voltage to your starter when this problem arises.  If you see a voltage drop, it could be the alarm spider.

Next, I'd check inside the steering column to see if you have a short.  Check the ignition barrel and look for any hot spots or black flash points.  Check all the wiring leading down the column to be certain that there is no short.

If this seems a mystery to you, here is a website that might be helpful for you in Australia:  www.lrenthusiastforum.com  goto the Australia, New Zealand pages.

Best of luck,

JohnMc