XJS won't start

[Maughan]

I have an M reg (1994) 4.0L 6 cylinder XJS auto, 119k miles, very good condition.

I have what I hope is just a small problem on the car, on which I would appreciate your collective advice.

The symptoms are:
- car would not start last night
- on first turn of ignition key, there was a slight sound of turning over, but then just a series of loud clunky clicks
- had not driven/moved the car in the preceding 7 days
- previously had difficulty in getting the remote central locking to work (even after replacing the battery in the remote)

But:
- interior lights/electrics seem to be working OK
- battery gauge is showing normal

It sounds to me like the battery (despite the gauge?), but before I buy a new one, could you please comment on whether that is a sensible first starting point?

If it is the battery, what spec would you recommend?

Many thanks in advance!

[Wacky Racer]

www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?f=11&h=0&t=75530..........??????

Starter solonoid???

[Maughan]

Thanks for that link - it has a load of suggestions for a fairly similar-sounding problem. Trouble is, I am now somewhat confused as to what the problem might actually be!

You suggest a dodgy solenoid? Can that be easily treated/fixed "in the street" to get it going? Would a long, hard thrash then sort it out or do I need a replacement solenoid (if that is the problem)?

Any other likely possibilities for my symptoms...?

Thanks again.

[lanciachris]

Crappy connections to starter / battery would be worth cleaning them up before spending money on replacing it.

[IOLAIRE]

lanciachris said:

Crappy connections to starter / battery would be worth cleaning them up before spending money on replacing it.

Almost certainly it's a bad battery connection,
On the Jag they have to be absolutely spotless and nice and tight or they give exactly the symptoms you describe.

[angelis]

Wacky Racer said:

www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?f=11&h=0&t=75530..........?????? Starter solonoid???

Link does'nt work for me.