Starter problems
 

Hi all I'm new to this so any help would be much appriciated! I have a 1990 Volvo 480 Es model which has been sitting for over the last 10 years, it was my mums car. In a bid to bring it back to life I am attempting to get it running and driving again but have run into a couple of problems.

First problem, I have a good battery and jump started it, when I turn the key all the lights come on, dashboard lights up, headlights work etc, when I then turn the key to crank, the lights dim a small amount but nothing happens, I'm not even getting a click from the starter

Second problem, thinking it was the starter, I said I'd test it and probably pull the starter, problem being it seems that I can't get at the starter unless I pull the motor, wondering if anyone has any ideas on how to get at the starter without pulling out the whole motor.

Again any help would be amazing as its my first Volvo project car, thanks!

The starter is likely seized after so long unused so get someone to hit the starter with something solid (preferably wooden) whilst you're turning the key.

Hi,

Rocking the car whilst in gear helps too.
More help would be available if you actually posted in the correct forum for your car as well!
Doesn't anyone know how to scroll their browser these days!
/moving...

Des. . . ;)

If you can, get a refurbished starter - they tend to last longer than new ones for some reason and yes, they are a complete ass to get out.

The best thing I can advise is get the car on lifts and then go in from under the car. It is possible to remove the starter without pulling the engine. The gearbox is only 6 bolts if you want to move that out of the way. But lining it back up is a bit annoying.

Really, theres two heat Shields you need to remove, them you can get at the starter, you need children's hands to get in there and move your tools around. It's three bolts. Should take about a day to replace.

Oh amd make sure you take the positive off the battery

you are in luck, mine gave out yesterday....so i guess ill be making a guide (grumble grumble)

Is your car manual or automatic?

mine is a manual motor :)

Question was aimed at the OP - thinking about the starter inhibitor system on the auto.

Looking forward to your guide, however.

Are we talking about the same car ?

a 480 NA ?

you can take the starter out very easily its not a hard job you certainly dont need to do anything to the actual engine.

I have swopped out and in a number of starters it really isnt that difficult so I dont know why people are saying it is ?

Agreed with Jim.

It's really not that difficult on the N/As, the turbos are a PITA, as all the turbo gubbins is in the way.