Triumph MAYFLOWER 1951, Instruction Book

Page: 60 / 86

59
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM— Starter Motor
THE STARTER MOTOR
The starter brush gear and commutator will not normally require attention. After 50,000
miles (80,000 km.) however, it is advisable to have the unit serviced at a Triumph or
Lucas Service depot.
Should the starter pinion become jammed in mesh with the flywheel, then it can be
released by turning the crankshaft with the starting handle in the normal manner, or select
top gear and rock the car backwards and forwards until the pinion releases itself
Starter Motor only turns Crankshaft slowly
The battery may be run down due to leaving the ignition switch on, or leaving the
car standing with the head lamps on.
The grade of oil in the engine sump may be too heavy.
Starter Motor will not turn Crankshaft
This may be due to a broken connection between the starter and battery or a bad
contact.
If the red warning light goes out when the starter button is pressed, then the battery
is in a rundown condition and the engine should be started by hand.
If the motor hums but does not engage with the flywheel when the starter button is
pressed, then:
(a)
The battery may be in a rundown condition.
(b) The brushes are sticking or the commutator requires cleaning.
(c) Battery terminals are not clean or secure.
CONTROL B OX
The control box, mounted on the wing valance, in front of the battery, houses the voltage
regulator and cut-out. These units are carefully and accurately set before leaving the works
and must not be tampered with.
F U S E S
The fuse box is located forward and slightly below the control box and contains the two
fuses. The top fuse (50 amp.) protects the horn, while the other fuse (35 amp.) protects
those items which can only operate when the ignition is switched on, i.e., direction
indicators, windscreen wipers, brake light, reverse light, petrol gauge, and heater ( if
fitted). When replacing a fuse, it is important to use the correct replacement (the fusing
value is marked on a coloured paper slip inside the tube). Spare fuses are also carried in
the box.