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Old 11-30-2009, 05:57 PM   #1
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1985 32.5' Airstream 325
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85 325 Mechanical problem

I have recently purchased a 1985 325 in springfield Vermont. It has a stating problem. It does not start with ignition key. If you jump the starter it starts right up. So if anyone could give me some advice on how to troubleshoot this I would appreciate it. Also any good mechanics in the Springfield area?
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Old 11-30-2009, 06:18 PM   #2
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Len, sounds like a weak starter or starter bendix.

It could simply be the connections to the starter or to the battery.

Check your grounds.

Find a shop that is a good old American Chevy friendly spot.
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Old 11-30-2009, 06:26 PM   #3
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Not sure what engine you are working with but if it is a GM try disconnecting the battery and then tighten the battery cable at the starter. GM takes all power through that stud and they tend to open after time due to heat. If it is loose I would back it off, clean the stud and cable end and retighten. Don't put a lot of force on it as the bolt is only set in the plastic body of the Bendix.
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Old 11-30-2009, 07:05 PM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by lenmaul View Post
I have recently purchased a 1985 325 in springfield Vermont. It has a stating problem... So if anyone could give me some advice on how to troubleshoot this I would appreciate it.

Many problems and solutions have been covered in the past - use the "search" function -

Here is a thread covering your problem from 2003-2004:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f159...noid-4748.html


And another from 2003 -2005:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f159...rter-7468.html
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Old 11-30-2009, 08:47 PM   #5
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Ignition switch.

Hi, check your ignition switch, not the key lock cylinder, but the actual electrical switch; They have an overload problem and the switch & connector melts. Replacing the switch without replacing the connector will either not work, or work only for a short time. There is a kit that replaces the ignition switch, connector, and a relay to carry the extra load that caused this problem in the first place.
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Old 11-30-2009, 10:11 PM   #6
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Thanks folks

Thanks, between your posts and the links you suggested I have a good idea where to start and have a good overall view of the system.

Len
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Old 12-02-2009, 05:43 AM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ROBERTSUNRUS View Post
Hi, check your ignition switch, not the key lock cylinder, but the actual electrical switch; They have an overload problem and the switch & connector melts. Replacing the switch without replacing the connector will either not work, or work only for a short time. There is a kit that replaces the ignition switch, connector, and a relay to carry the extra load that caused this problem in the first place.
Bob,

Can you give a little more info on the kit you mentioned? Is it a GM part, aftermarket, or..?

Thanks!

Brad
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Old 12-02-2009, 06:09 AM   #8
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Hello Brad, I ask at NAPA yesterday about Bobs post and they said the Kit they knew of Used a remotely located starter solenoid located in a cool, dry place ! something the Mudders use !

We stopped at Panera Bread, Richmond on Monday while bringing the 345 and trailer down to Jamestown. Kind of Tight in the New Plaza area ?
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Old 12-02-2009, 06:35 AM   #9
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Thumbs up

The above posts have given you a good roadmap to follow....

I would add to the list...neutral safety switch.

TROUBLESHOOTING BASIC STARTING SYSTEM PROBLEMS
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Old 12-02-2009, 07:46 AM   #10
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Bob,
Can you give a little more info on the kit you mentioned? Is it a GM part, aftermarket, or..?
Thanks!
Brad
GM makes repair kits for several of their known fire hazard problems. In the case of the headlight switch kit it include a new connector and pigtailed wiring to splice into the harness. They never did offer a correction for the flaming windshield wiper motors.

It is my experience that may who have had this problem eventually end up at the starter battery post. During this period on manufacture GM distributed ALL power through this terminal and the heat caused the terminal to open over time. At least check the terminal before spending a lot of money.
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Old 12-02-2009, 11:26 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bkahler View Post
Bob,

Can you give a little more info on the kit you mentioned? Is it a GM part, aftermarket, or..?

Thanks!

Brad
Hi, Brad. My brother has an SOB motorhome and he bought the kit from a GM dealer.
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Old 12-03-2009, 04:14 PM   #12
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We just had quite a bit of work done on our unit...rebuilt distributor...the key ignition was bad...tap the key while running, and the unit shut down...we also had to replace the starter relay located under the doghouse, to the front, on top...could start it jumping around the relay, but the replacement was only $23(and a few choice words during installation...) mike
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Old 12-03-2009, 04:48 PM   #13
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http://www.airforums.com/forums/f311...oid-59038.html

This will fix your problem once and for all
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Old 12-03-2009, 05:40 PM   #14
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Wink


New battery, starter, cables, solenoid, Bendix, ignition switch & cylinder, neutral safety switch, flex plate, and kaneutin valve, that should about do-do it.
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Old 12-03-2009, 07:23 PM   #15
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But...

Quote:
Originally Posted by ROBERT CROSS View Post

New battery, starter, cables, solenoid, Bendix, ignition switch & cylinder, neutral safety switch, flex plate, and kaneutin valve, that should about do-do it.
Ya forgot the window washing thingm
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