Hot Start Relay - location.

Hi,

Quick question: I've been researching installing a hot start relay and most threads say how easy it is. I've then looked around for the location of the starter motor and solenoid and as far as I can tell it's right up over the axle. How do I get access to this are easiest? If I remove the wheel will there be access somehow?

Thanks

 

I would jack up the rear and get in on some axle stands or ramps. You could do it without jacking up if your bus is stock height.

Then slide in from the offside and you should have pretty good access.

Disconnect the wires, add in the relay and new wiring, fix the 'unit' then connect up the new wiring.

 

you don't need to remove wheels it is easy on stock height to crawl under although i did mine on ramps, i routed the wires into the engine bay and fitted the relay to the air filter box to keep it dry.

 

As above, if you're a slimmer gentleman with a stock height, you can just slide underneath. An inspection light helps.

I'd put the relay in the engine compartment.

 

Thanks for the replies everyone. Yes, I think I'll aim to put it in the engine compartment as well.

Ta

 

even fat blokes can do it, you just have to put up with getting a bruised belly

 

What does a hot start relay as described actually do? Thanks John

 

Put two wheels on a kerb to give you more belly room

 

my bus is stock height

i just slide under, remove the flexy air ducting for the heating and sit up with my head in the gap whats left with the started right next to me

 

Thanks guys.

In an interesting new development I was chatting this morning to the guy who's fitting my CB radio (I know, don't ask) and I told him to be aware of a hot start problem if he has to move the van. He said "oh yeah, I know. That length of wire running up and down the van. And all those connections at the starter getting corroded. I can fit a start relay if you like?", which was a result in itself but then he said "but that's really not fixing the problem, I'd replace the wire and terminals. At the starter there's loads of terminals on the +ve. I generally replace them with one and then a connector".

So, next week, I'm going to get the job sorted properly!

 

He's switched on, your mate . Generally over the years it's not the wiring that corrodes, but the connectors and the very ends of the wires they're attached to. Cutting the wires back and crimping new connectors can rejuvenate the wiring, as can cleaning up all of the stuff connected to the main starter terminal.

If there's one cable that is worth replacing (with new terminals), it's the main 4mm2 feed to the front of the van.

 

... just had a call. If I let him finish the CB install tomorrow he'll do the starter wiring for me as well, free of charge.

I said yes.

 

Thanks Snotty for explaining that. Just one follow up question - why does it make a difference if the starter is hot or cold? Thanks John

 

The red/black cable is indeed the one. Your headlights will be grateful for a cleanup.

The starting handle is possibly overkill...