We have 1980 mini our 16 year old son tried to start this evening mini had been sitting for a short while, oil and water levels ok. Turned engine over by hand a few times before starting.Mini started and run but a loud clunk was heard, now wont turn over with key.But when car is on a jack both front wheels turn ok .I don't think it is sized. Any Ideas and thanks in advance.
franc123,
Jul 4, 6:30am
What the front wheels are doing isn't relevant if something has gone wrong with the engine, not the gearbox, I take it nothing is different with the clutch down? Removing the grille and the starter motor and attempting to turn the engine by hand by the ring gear teeth is where I'd go next.
elvis221,
Jul 4, 6:47am
Thanks Franc will get him to try that. Could it be the starter motor jammed?
a.woodrow,
Jul 4, 7:42am
Yep definitely check starter
dublo,
Dec 6, 11:54am
If the starter pinion has jammed in the ring gear you should be able to release it by engaging a gear and rocking the car back and forth, when it hopefully will become free. You will hear that. Then you can try starting the engine again. Happened to me in the past in my 1100, eventually needed an exchange starter motor because of the worn pinion. (Also happened in the 1950s with Dad's 1938 Ford V8, which was a bit heavier to move!)
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