G/Day All,

Just rejoined as I changed my email address and lost the lot.

I have a 2000 S-Type 4 litre V8, that shut down yesterday and won't turn over. Battery good [ as new]. Turn key on she lights up then when you turn key to start position lights go out and all dead.

Any idea what to look for to fix it.

Chuck Cresswell

 

Welcome back to the forum Chuck,

I've copied the question from your Intro to S-Type forum. Members here with the same model will be able to help.

Graham

 

[QUOTE=GGG;1597354]Welcome back to the forum Chuck,

I've copied the question from your Intro to S-Type forum. Members here with the same model will be able to help.

Graham[/QUOTE. Thanks Graham, Chuck

 

Power/ground bad connection (high impedance) if you're sure the battery isn't fooling you.

Especially check the path to the starter motor.

After that, suspect the starter.

Have you in any case changed the timing chain tensioners - if not, your engine is on borrowed time.

 

Yer, I did fit a full timing chain kit, had battery tested in town [ i live 10 km out ] I also crossed the starter and it working ok, but I also found the steering wheel won't unlock. so was thinking the ignition switch???. Thanks to all for your help so far. Chuck

 

If the dash lights come one then go out how can it not be a power problem? Start with Electrical Guide & JTIS and work through power (& gnd).

Be aware it might be high impedance or a short. If the latter, a fire is a risk.

 

That sounds exactly like a marginal connection somewhere. The bad spot can carry enough current to light the dash lights, etc., but fails under the massive load of the starter.

Here's a troubleshooting guide I wrote years ago for just this scenario. It's posted at a Ford truck forum to which I belong, but the principles are exactly the same for any vehicle:

Voltage Drop Testing How-To: Fix That Slow Starter - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

The only difference is you will need to fabricate a long test jumper to extend one of your meter leads because of the battery location. A length of wire with an alligator clip at each end is all you'd need.