[LeMansta']

I need some help here! I had some mods done to my c5, to include headers. I've read here at DC that other members have had starter problems due to header heat. The car would not start, it sounded like it would not engage with the flywheel all the way. I checked the flywheel for damage, but it looked fine. I replaced the starter and it worked!! Only lasted me 2.5 days. :surprised Today I went to start it, my battery was low and when it tried to start, it wouldn't. Immediatley after that, when I tried starting it for the second time, it sounded like the starter would just spin freely, without engaging. Is this problem really related to the heat from headers, or was it caused due to dead battery.

Thanx in advance!!

 

[The Torch]

Have you checked for codes? It sounds like it might be a low battery condition

 

[LeMansta']

I'm going to replace the battery today. I guess my main concern is the starter. When it tried to do its job, it just spun freely w/out engaging. The second concern (still w/starter) is the heat from headers. Is it really true that this heat can and/or will fry the starter?

Thanx!

 

[LeMansta']

I replaced the battery, now it gages 11.8 v's. I don't understand why it reads less with this new one than before.:huh:

 

[vette427-sbc]

heat from headers can ruin a starter. i believe it is the solenoid that goes due to the heat, which would cause it to spin freely. try using a heat shield or a mini starter

 

[Dandy Don]

I replaced the battery, now it gages 11.8 v's. I don't understand why it reads less with this new one than before.:huh:

Kilr,
I have had long tubes on since Feb and just got off a 5900 mile trip with no problems at all.
If you are reading 11.8V with a new battery you most probably have a problem with the alternator. When the engine is running, you should be showing between 13.8V and 14.2V. I am pretty sure the voltage regulator is in the alternator. Remove the Neg batt lead and charge the battery up for about 6 hrs with a remote batt charger then re-connect the neg lead and try the starter with a fully charged battery.
My bet is the voltage regulator is gone.
DD

 

[Patrick]

Is this problem really related to the heat from headers...

I find it unlikely. I'm sure I get my headers glowing orange... :laughing: and likely get them hotter (sustained) than most here and I haven't had any issues like that.

 

[LeMansta']

Thanx for the replies! I would try the charging the battery, but it's brand new. It reads 11.8 just after installing it. How could I check the selenoid without removing the starter? I guess I could also check the alternator, but I need to get it started first, don't I?

Thanx!

 

[The Torch]

Did you try and start it with the new battery?

 

[The Bad]

How long had the new battery been sitting on the shelf? It may have lost some charge over time.
I would charge it up as stated before.:thumbsup: