Starts Like It Has Compression Lock

[RAV 4 1998 2 DOOR]

Hi to all.

Got a problem with my 1998 3 door. Recently had a problem with the car not starting. So thinking that the Battery must be flat i charged it and no problem it went.

Since then have bought big 650 CCA Battery for it and low and behold the problem has arisen again.

Let me explain. When turning the ignition key the starter will engage on the flywheel but will not turn over the engine. If i persist and keep turning the switch off and on again it will start up eventually.

To better describe what it sounds like is I get the feeling that it is a compression lock but when it does start it's fine.

just to add that it will do this hot or cold any time day or night.

[Big Kev]

Sounds very similar to a fellow member who finally got good advice on here to check for burnt out (solenoid.....?) contacts within the starter motor itself, albeit his was a much more recent car than yours. This sounds more like intermittent electrical rather than something as dramatic as compression lock (whatever that do be......)

[igormus]

before conclusion - you should definitely measure compression.

do you feel petrol smel from an exhaust ?

do you have video to see ?

[bothwell_buyer]

On that age of car, first check that the earth strap to the engine is good. They corrode and cause problems due to resistance on starting. I just got an extra earth lead fitted.

It may be that the timing has moved slightly so its a quick check by a mechanic for that - the solenoid and or starter - again some starter motor specialists will check that for you free.

But I'd start with bolting on another earth lead. Cheap enough and bolt it to something solid.

[RAV 4 1998 2 DOOR]

Sorry for the delay. Turns out it was the starter motor after all. When I installed the new one it turned over so much quicker and quieter. The original one must have been on its way out for a long time as i had just got used to the sound of it. Any how all is well now.