Greetings Everyone,

The third time’s the charm. I’m on my third battery on my 1987 Jaguar XJ6. This vehicle is rarely driven – probably fewer than 1000 miles a year. Every time it remains parked for more than a few days without being cranked, the battery dies and I have to jump it off. Recently, the car went two months without being started, so I purchased a new battery a tried cranking, but was unsuccessful. I tried for 30 minutes and the engine would just turn over and over but never fire. I fear I may have burned out my starter since I held the key down for perhaps too long because now just the warning lights come on, but nothing engages. I did have the starter replaced before the vehicle was parked. If it matters, I did clean out three dead mice nests . The car is parked outside under a car cover. As always, thanks to everyone who participates in the discussion.

Jeremy

 

Read this, post back with any questions

Engine Will Not Crank Checklist

Cheers
DD

 

Jeremy:

1. If the engine cranks over, but does not start, it may not be the starter. My only caveat would be that a dragging starter uses all the volts, leaving not enough to fire the plugs, fuel pump and injectors.

2. Long, ago, I was taught that continuous cranking seldom started a reluctant engine, but only added to the issue/s, a dead battery. After a crank or so, if no start, commence the diagnosis.

3. You can destroy a starter by continous cranking. Been there, done that!!

4. You may have a parasitic drain on the battery, even if the ignition switch and lamps are off. Low grade short? Been there as well. Or in these cars, a boiot swiutcvh that fails to turn off. And, as the interior lamps in these czrs are not that beight, it is easy to leave them on! Been there as well.

5. Until the issues are resolved, when you leave the car for a period of time, disconnect the _ battery cable.

Buena fortuna con electrictrickey!!

Carl