MK7 RWD 2.4 Strange Starting problems

[stevelee35]

2006 2.4 RWD Transit
So couple of weeks ago my van would not start on the first attempt all i got was this weird sound like a vinyl record scratch sound when i turned the key then
On the second attempt it would fire up as normal.
Anyway a week later this got abit worse and would take 3 or 4 attempts to start, Same sound like a record scratch but no engine turning over at all then on the 3rd or 4th attempt it would start
as normal.

So changed the ignition switch but no luck so then changed the glow plugs still no better and now it wont start at all turn the key and nothing happens
I have checked both battery's both are fully charged i have even tried it on brand new battery's but nothing, Checked the earth from the battery's but seems ok.

Has anyone else had something like this could it be the starter motor has gone, i don't want to just keep replacing parts until its fixed as it gets very expensive and this van has already cost me a fortune.

[knobby1]

Certainly sounds like a sticky starter. There's a "throw-out" lever and electromagnetic piston which can stick causing your problem/noise....often a good old fashioned cleanout will help, if not just replace the starter..

Lord Knobrot

[stevelee35]

Thought the issue might be the starter hopefully sorts the problem when i replace it.

[stevelee35]

Took the starter off today hooked a battery up to test it and its dead so looks like a found my problem.

[Jim Archer]

Is the start throw-out assembly jammed up with swarf? If the pinnion can't come fully forward the contacts for the motor don't engage.

Swarf will be from the DMF breaking up - assuming one is fitted.

Jim