my 82 dl is completley dead. the dashlights come on but there is no sound from the starter and occasional clicking from the solenoid. has original wiring wich is biodegrading. it was supposed to be running tomorrow to take me across country, but it got very cold last night, and died in a parking lot. i am decent with wiring, but have no clue where to find the starter. reading past messages sounds like a couple of new wires would probably solve my problem, if someone could at least help me locate the starter it would be greatly appreciated as i am praying to have it running by the end of the day. thank you!

Hey Aubrey,

I always say: first things first. Start by making sure the battery is ok. If it isnt, then you need to check the charging system as well. Including the system wiring.

Also, if you decide to take it across country, leave early, travel in the day. Not at night.

Good luck

Lawrence

I have and 82 with the orignial harness, and there are no problems. The problem is not universal.

Aubrey -- I'd be reluctant to take this across the country unless you're far more adventurous than I am. Sounds to me like you've got a dead battery. That may be all that's wrong. The battery may have been old and died a natural death. Then again, the alternator/voltage regulator may be crapped out. But...if you've got flaking wiring, that may why your battery is draining. Lots of possibilities that only you can diagnose up close. You need a battery charge (or new battery), a Bentley manual, and a VOM. Get those things done first and then reassess taking this one across the country.

Rob Kuhlman

If you hear a click fron the solenoid, it's not the neutral safety switch. It could be the starter itself. Mine gives me problems when the temp is around freezing. If your wiring harness is turning into toast, this is probably your problem. not enough juice to the starter from a bad ground. There are two small wires with spade conectors going to your starter, these were the ones on mine that melted when my harness burned up. The heavy guage battery/starter cable end may have some corrosion on it too. You will have to get under the car and take a good look at the condition of the wires. (drivers side B21 Motors). You may be able to splice in a new section for a temporary fix. Also check the battery cables. The ground that goes to the body and to the engine block could have corrosion on it. I cleaned up the ends of mine with sandpaper for a good contact.
Ben