Well, I'm no mechanic but I have tinkered a bit. That lack of any noise is clearly the starter motor as you said. If I recall correctly a jammed starter motor usually goes "clunk" or "click" or something rather than making no noise at all. If this was the case though then I can happily believe that using the handle might mechanically disengage the starter motor in a way that the electric start wouldn't have done. However, I am not sure what would cause the starter motor to stick really.
I'm not sure I believe other people's comments on fuel lines since even if there is no petrol anywhere in the car turning the key should turn over the engine via the starter motor (which is entirely battery powered). Next time it does it I'd suggest peering at the starter motor to see if it looks alright. And in fact I would suggest peering at it before then to know what it should like like and where it is.
Oh, and lastly I should disclaim that I have never tinkered with a car as old as yours so it could be that what I am saying is only really valid on newer cars. Certainly I have no idea where the starting-handle comes into things or what kickback or lack of it might mean. :)
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Date: 2003-03-26 05:15 am (UTC)I'm not sure I believe other people's comments on fuel lines since even if there is no petrol anywhere in the car turning the key should turn over the engine via the starter motor (which is entirely battery powered). Next time it does it I'd suggest peering at the starter motor to see if it looks alright. And in fact I would suggest peering at it before then to know what it should like like and where it is.
Oh, and lastly I should disclaim that I have never tinkered with a car as old as yours so it could be that what I am saying is only really valid on newer cars. Certainly I have no idea where the starting-handle comes into things or what kickback or lack of it might mean. :)
Anyway, good luck with sorting it.