starter?

[biglakebound]

This should be easy, not for a neophyte like me. I sometimes have to turn the key "many" times before the starter engages. Just bought this 240sx and the previous owner said mechanic didn't experience the problem so had no solution. Where do i start?.......Any ideas?

[benemorius]

Do you hear a pretty loud click coming from the starter each time you turn the key? If so, there's a good chance that the starter solenoid is too filthy to work properly and should be replaced.

[biglakebound]

no loud click.............i just turn key back and forth......sometimes 20 times before it engages

[benemorius]

Auto or manual? It could be the clutch or inhibitor switch not working or not being engaged. Those are common as well.

[biglakebound]

it is manual..............i depress clutch multiple times trying to get some action.......very frustrating

[benemorius]

I would guess it is either the clutch interlock switch or it's relay. Poke your head down by the clutch pedal and locate the switch which is depressed when the clutch is pushed all the way down. Remove it's connector and use a wire or paperclip to jumper the two pins in the connector together. If that allows it to start then either the switch is bad or is not making good contact with the pedal. If it still won't start, pop the hood and listen by the passenger side headlight for a click while someone turns the key. If you get no click then your clutch interlock relay probably needs to be replaced. It's blue and I believe is located somewhere behind the passenger side headlight on an s13. I'm not sure about an s14.

[biglakebound]

wow........thanks so much for your help...........there is a friendly worl out there......i dont know crap about cars..........but if you ever have a window or fireplace question i am your man, lolthanks again

[benemorius]

I'll keep that in mind. Good luck and be sure to let us know how it goes.

[Moto Man]

Try tapping on your starter motor with a wrench a couple of times. If your starter is going bad, that'll sometimes get it going.

It's only a temporary solution, of course.