Telstar AR 1985 - No enging cranking

[Flokos]

Dear all,
As I continue the maintenance of my beloved car, after 2 days of colder nights, I could not start the engine properly this morning. First attempt of turning the ignition key indicated a lethargic battery as cranking was attempted. The second try just caused a super-quick rattling noise inside the distributor. I've changed the IC box at the back of the distributor and replaced it with a new one - the same result. I've checked the inside of the distributor ''cylinder'' and inspected the 4 contact points (for the ignition leads) and the central rotating arm - looked fine). Ignition leads and spark plugs are OK. I have not yet changed a NARVA relay switch that has leads towards the starter motor. But, as the first attempt showed an almost dead battery, I suspect it as the cause, even though I've recharged it a week ago, and the car was doing fine....
Your advice would be appreciated. Thanks, Flokos

[Flokos]

Dear all, problem resolved, the battery was almost dead. Some days ago, I did some cleanup with the window mechanisms during afternoon time, closed all doors as usual & parked the car, that was not moved for 3 days. Last afternoon, I've rechecked all electrical I could and out of interest, decided to recheck the battery - it was almost dead. After recharging it and shut the driver's door, the light under the steering wheel was on, and found out that the driver's door switch was malfunctioning (was on). I assume that this happened, causing the battery to go flat. So, please re-check these switches regularly, else, they can chew plenty of amps.
For the benefit of Telstar drivers, rattling noise inside the distributor = dead battery. Many thanks, Flokos.

[Chief Tool]

Good to see AR's still kicking around.