Starting Issue

[ronj81]

Hello, I have a 1981 Fiat spider - My car will not start, here's a little history. 3 months ago my car turns when I start the engine but it turns off right away. I was told that it could be the fuel relay. Yesterday I replace the fuel relay and attempt to start the car again for the first time. When I turn ignition to ON all instrument turns on as it should be but when I turn the key to start the engine it does not start. Some one mentioned on the net that 1981 fiat spider ha start relay but I don't there is because I could not find them on the book. Could it be that my starter is out - where should I start to pin point the problem. I need help since summer is just around the corner...

Best wishes to all,

Ron J

[So Cal Mark]

Need more information to be able to help! Does the starter operate at all? Does the engine spin when you turn the key to start? You're going to need either a test light or voltmeter to any diagnosis.

Your car will have a starter relay if it also has an automatic transmission

[ronj81]

thank you for the reply.
the car is manual and when I turn the ignition to start the car it does nothing, no turn, no click. If it was the starter then it should at click when I turn the key, right?.. The battery is new.
where should I start diagnosing the problem?

[So Cal Mark]

you're going to need a voltmeter or test light. See if you have battery voltage at the starter cable terminal, then check for power to the spade connector on the solenoid with the key in "start". You might also check the connector from the ignition switch; they can melt from high resistance

[mbouse]

the battery has recently been disconnected from a battery charger? just because the battery was recently purchased is not a guaruntee that it is good. has it been recently charged? three months is plenty of time for an inactive fully charged new battery to go flat.

turn the key to the run position. turn on the headlights and hazard lights. do they work? if so, look under the dash to the big white electrical connecting block from the starter. Squeeze this together to see if it is fully connected. jiggle this connector while you attempt to start the car again. Anything?

maybe the solenoid is stuck. lightly tap the solenoid with the butt of a wooden handled hammer. now try to start the car. anything?

[ronj81]

Thank you very much for the suggestions, I have found the problem. The ignition wire somehow came off, I place it back where it should be and she started with flying colors...

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