New Member with New '89 XJS

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Dec 30, 2008 | 02:09 AM

L Powell

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New Member with New '89 XJS

I recently picked up a 1989 XJS and trailered it from Alabama to Tennessee, this car was my sisters car and she had let it sit for 4 years, she passed away and I claimed the car being the only person in the family that wanted it and thatknows anything what so ever about British cars ( I own 2 Spits, and a MGB). The problem I have is that it was thought that the starter had gone bad in the car and one was purchased for the car but never put in. I know there are many reasons why a engine will not spin over (engine is not locked, was driven to when it was stored) 1. Starter, 2. solinoid, 3. starter relay, 4. Nuetral switch, My question to the group is this, what is the best way to troubleshot this problemand where are thelocations of these items? I am still waiting on a Workshop Repair/Service Manual for the car. Any help would ge greatl appreciated

Dec 30, 2008 | 10:58 AM

Doug

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Joined: Mar 2008

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From: Pacific Northwest USA

RE: New Member with New '89 XJS

Here's where I'd begin:

On the right fenderwell there should be a bank of relays under a black plastic cover, including the large-ish silver starter relay. Remove the white/red wire and apply 12volts to it. This bypasses the entire control circuit. The starter should turn if its still good, assuming the conenctions at the starter are still intact and clean.

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Cheers
DD

Dec 30, 2008 | 12:38 PM

JagtechOhio

Joined: Mar 2008

Posts: 2,521

Likes: 71

From: Powell, Ohio U.S.A. 43065

RE: New Member with New '89 XJS

There's also a spade connector for that same white/ red wire, adjacent to the transmission dipstick, where you can direct feed the solenoid. I have seen a bad connection at this point cause your problem as well. I'd be testing the starter relay as the most likely culprit.