328 starting issue

If you're getting a click and then nothing when you turn the key, but sometimes it goes, then your starter solenoid is probably toast. If there are any other issues with running or electrical components, then the problem is something else electric/wiring.

 

If you turn the key and there is absolutely no sound, then your ignition switch is likely bad. Do prepare to bend over.

 

Ron, there's a good possibility of high resistance from the ignition switch. Ferrari's of that vintage did not have a starter relay in the circuit, the ignition switch takes all the current load to operate the starter solenoid. After years of use the ignition contacts become worn and dirty and can't carry the current load to the solenoid. Have your mechanic or if you are so inclined jump the starter solenoid directly with battery voltage and see if operates the starter. If it does that chances are it may be the ignition switch. But, before you replace the ignition switch wire in a simple 60amp relay to the solenoid from the ignition switch, let the relay carry the load. At my repair facility any time we replace or rebuild a starter on this era of Ferrari the standard procedure is to install a relay.

 

Yes sir, after investigating and sorting out the issue I would also fit a relay to the starter system.

Here is some pics/thread when I fit one to my 348 a few years ago.

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=160866&highlight=348+hard+start&page=2

 

Yeah, I'm going through the same thing right now with my '70 XKE. Starter switch is toast from too much current running through a flimsy switch mechanism. I could not get the switch unit, so I have to replace the whole key/switch assembly. PITA job. And I'm wiring in a relay for the starter circuit to avoid the problem again down the road. This is fairly common on these older cars, and removing as much load as possible off to relays is a good way to go.

 

clean battery terminals with wire brushes designed for them.

if still bad, raise the car in back and clean all terminals to the starter (disconnect battery first..DUH)

clean/replace ground straps.

if still bad, replace starter.

also, during operation, verify the operation of the charging system (alt light on-start car-alt light off). if alt light doesnt turn off, clean/check/rebuild alternator (could be low charge causing battery stress).

ign sw is an easy fix for the terminals...a PITA if it's the locking device.

if none fixes it, you have some cables and stuff to clean and replace.

also, download the free wiring diagram.

my 328 starts up fine.

 

There are two big quick disconnect/bullet connectors in the system & if the whole car is dead I would suspect one of those.

One is on the left side of the front compartment just in front of the spare wheel area and the second is located under the car behind a "U" shaped fibreglass cover just forward of the engine, slightly to the left side. Its the main power feed to the starter.

Clean those up and check the main ground strap at the back left corner of the engine before you go anywhere near ignition switches & starter motors etc.

 

I would say that if you are getting absolutely nothing (no ignition light, no starter etc etc) when you turn the key this is something pretty straightforward & most likely as I suggested.

Its easy to clean all the connections round the front end of the car close to the battery. Getting to the bullet connector underneath means you need to jack the thing up & if you can't do that safely then get someone to put it on a lift for you. If you drove it onto a 4 post ramp it would take 5 minutes to remove the cover (2 x M6 bolts) & then clean/check that connector underneath. Anybody could do it.

If those don't cure it then I would be looking in the area of the ignition switch

FWIW I had an intermittant starting issue (turn the key & "nothing") a few years ago & cleaning up all the main connectors in the HT system cured it (and I know of others who have had the same problem).

 

Sounds like your key cylinder is loose, so the contacts may not be contacting.
Unless you push or pull or play with it a little.

 

Yep, jiggling a worn key cylinder will sometimes get it to work. Try your original key with the jiggling in a similar manner, it may be more likely to work as well.

 

Which direction are you? My brother is 90 miles away East on 84 and could help you out with this.

GT

 

Check the main battery/starter connections..then the ignition switch wire to the starter..then check the little black plastic ignition module on the back if the ignition switch.It sounds as if it is about to become toast..using a different key just hides the problem. All of these cars of this generation have the same symtoms and ignition problems..or will have...not if..but..when..many posts on this..my bet is on the plastic ignition module..been there..done that..twice.. in over a decade of ownership.."Life Ain't Easy For a Boy Named Sue"..Johnny Cash...hope this helps..Jacques.

 

--