Edit this page
(last edited April 9, 2003)
Frequently Asked Questions | Title Index | Recent Changes | User Preferences | Sand Box | Help
» Title Index
» Electrics/General
» Alternative Glossary
» Frequently Asked Questions
» Electrics/Starter Motors
STARTER MOTORS
There have been three recent starter motors for the K-Series:
- Magnetti Marelli
- Magneton
- Race starter (1.4kW)
Magnetti Marelli failure modes and workaround
The Magnetti Marelli motor is prone to solenoid failure because of vibration and heat. This has the symptoms of the starter relay clicking and the starter not actuating. Temporary starting can usually be achieved by wiggling the small wire on the starter solenoid while turning the key. Alternatively the handle of a ring spanner can be wrapped in insulating tape and the ring end of the spanner can be guided delicately between the exhaust headers and then be brought to make a shorting contact between the two contacts (large and small) on the solenoid – this has the much the same effect of wiggling the small connection at the same time as supplying 12V. Some people survive for years like this, although stalling in traffic can be annoying and it is important for the petrol attendant not to get wind of the size of sparks that are jumping around your engine bay. It is important that the ring spanner is insulated up its handle otherwise you will find yourself arc welding it to the exhaust headers and the possibilities for engine bay fires will increase.
The rogue Marelli starter can be repaired with a replacement solenoid sourced from reputable alternator repairers. Grove Autoparts (020 8640 3068) are very good in Streatham. Others will be able to suggest alternatives in their localities.
Magneton starter
There is a developing view that the starter motor click associated with the Magneton starter is down to a poor feed to the solenoid from the battery. Some have wired more direct relay arrangements to good effect.
Race starter motor
This copes well with high compression engines and although expensive it seems to do the job.
Index Electrics
Index K-Series
Logo is the property of Lotus Seven Club,
unauthorised use is strictly forbidden. All other products mentioned
are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies.
Questions or problems regarding this web site should be directed to
sitemanager@lotus7club.com. Copyright 1983-2010 Lotus Seven Club.
All rights reserved.
Lotus Seven Club is the trading name of Seven Club Ltd.,
(Company Registration Number 3880568) whose registered office is
Horsingtons Yard, Tiverton Place, Lion Street, Abergavenny NP7 5PN
