Stranded Elaner, starter motor won't spin

[daveiow]

Hi all
I don’t think this is the same problem I had last year. As most know Gov took over custody of BFG when I bought the Evora last year and the problem did crop up again. I believe it was the original fitted Lotus alarm/immobiliser that was the problem and he diagnosed and isolated it and all was well. I am sure he will be along at some point to say exactly what he did.
I am sure with the wealth of knowledge here you will solve it.
As an aside I am now an expert in addressing all the little issues a 10 year old Evora has! It’s extremely satisfying to look at bonded and glued chassis and alloy suspension components but as with most cars (and Lotus especially) there are a lot of minor things to sort out.
Best Wishes to all
David

[david.bradley]

Hi
Many thanks for the responses.
Things have changed, but in an inconclusive way.
To pick up on the questions. Yes the pump primes, and the voltmeter shows 12v without engine running.
I've squirted contact cleaner in ignition, and pulled out and replaced the relays until a new one arrives.
At first this made no difference and still 'dead'. I then found that if I 'rocked' the key just at the transition of the starter position spring, it started to spin.
After a few goes of that, it now fires up every time.
Is it fixed? It feels hard to say. I'll change the relay when it comes.
What I wanted to query is this. I hear what you say about the ignition connector. I'm happy to replace it, but if it was the culprit would the relay click?
In terms of changing, how do you get the plastic unit off the lock?.
I've photographed it, it's a sort of D shaped piece with a white face, and a square connector on the lead.
Thanks again for the help.

[peteoddcar]

I’d go for an ignition switch -
I think this is the one check the photo against the one on the car.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/202103992068

If not just contact SJ Sports Cars

From the wonderful LEC Wiki


Ignition switch
The electric Ignition Starter Switch is from the 1988 to 93 Pontiac Lemans (USA). AIRTEX / WELLS Part # 1S6210 {#4971498, 7848744, LS589} on rockauto.com. BWD Ignition Starter Switch Part No. CS302 at Advance Auto Parts. Key cylinder should be from the same model but not confirmed.

The electrical part is held in by a set screw on the steering wheel side and a pin on the front side. You can remove without taking the steering wheel off by bending the end of a small screw driver to a right angle and using this to remove set screw. The pin is suppose to stay in but if it was overdriven you will have to remove it to get the part out. The pin should be flush with the housing and will be recessed if overdriven. The overdriven pin will come out if you press it in with a small screw driver or punch and pull hard on the switch. You might break the part removing so don't do this unless you plan on replacing. If you have to remove the pin drive it back in until it is flush before replacing the switch. This switch is inexpensive (less than $20) and should be replaced if you're having any problems such as the radio not staying on. You can disassemble and clean contacts as a temporary fix but should plan on replacing if there is any pitting of contacts.