Would a flat battery....

Discussion in 'Mech Tech' started by Dazza, Sep 19, 2017.

  1. Dazza

    Dazza Eyebrow not high brow

    Cause the engine to cut out?

    Towed a mates panel van a couple of miles tonight after he broke down..lights were on but very dim when I got there and no starter ..

    Once we got him back to mine - I turned the key and the thing sprung into life...but the lights remained very dim.
    I checked the battery leads and they were very loose, so I've put the battery on charge overnight and will see what's what tomorrow..

    Once the battery has started the engine doesn't the alternator provide the power to the ignition or does it rely on a charged battery?
    I always thought the battery had largely done its job once its turned the starter ... Its late on and I can't get my head round it :p
     
  2. Check the voltage at the ignition and headlights. It is common for the ancient wiring to cause a massive voltage drop causing problems like what you describe.
     
    Dazza likes this.
  3. Dazza

    Dazza Eyebrow not high brow

    I guess it could be something like that , its been dry stored for years..coming out for the first time tonight ..I'm guessing the battery is iffy for starters ..just didn't think a flat battery would cause it to cut out and die though
     
  4. Normally, I'd expect the alternator to keep the voltage up. But if the battery's knackered, it may be dragging the whole lot down, including the ignition supply. Hard to say.

    If his battery won't hold charge, bin it, stick a new one in.
     
    mgbman and Dazza like this.
  5. Flakey

    Flakey Supporter

    Earth connections, all the main ones.
    Positive connections, all the main ones.
    Twizzle all the fuses round as well.
     
    Day and Dazza like this.
  6. Also check the battery light in the dash works, as this is integral to the charging circuit also.
     
    Dazza likes this.
  7. "That's what it's all about...oooooh, the hokey cokey..."
     
    The Drama Man, Day, Dazza and 2 others like this.
  8. Pants, then trousers :thumbsup:
     
  9. Battery leads loose? Flat battery. No charging. Dim lights. Engine cut out, No start.

    That poor old panel van is in need of some basic maintenance and tlc.

    New battery and clean up the wiring connectors at the battery and earths and starter solenoid connectors and the van may get a new life.
     
    Day likes this.
  10. Dazza

    Dazza Eyebrow not high brow

    That's exactly how I see it, its not my van but its in my care for a day or two so going to give her a quick once over...ooer...
     
    mgbman likes this.
  11. crossy2112

    crossy2112 Supporter

    Come on Snotts, not if your going out rescuing folk :)
     

Share This Page