Starting problem
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Joined: Apr 2002
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From: Westport CT
Starting problem
I inadvertantly removed the key from my ignition three weeks ago and left it in the "accessory" position as opposed to the off position. Low and behold, it won't start. Now, the battery which is less than a year old and was in fine shape, is an old style, wet/acid battery, Delco R59. Here's what I did...I tried to jump the car with a strong battery from another vehicle, and all I get is a fast clicking sound, but the engine never turns over. There is power in the dome light, dash lights, and radio, when it is attached to the strong battery, and nothing, zero, when it's not connected to another battery. Question is, does it sound like the battery is toast, and not recoverable, or does it sound like more of an issue, like a bad starter, etc. What is the fast clicking sound I'm hearing, and why won't it turn over even when being jump started by a strong battery in another car? Any thoughts on what to try next ? 
Thanks for your input.
Thanks for your input.
Last edited by BigBlockThunder; Aug 9, 2004 at 09:09 AM.
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If the battery was completely discharged you should first charge the battery with a trickle charger.
I have seen many times when the cars battery was dead it could not be jumped.
I have seen many times when the cars battery was dead it could not be jumped.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Texas
St. Jude Donor '09
I Agree With Plaidside. Might Save You A New Battery. Before I Went With The Bad Starter Theory I Would Eliminate The Battery Issue. Clicking Sound May Be The Starter Solonoid Trying To Pull The Starter In But Can't Due To Low Power. Good Luck, And Let Us Know How You Make Out.
