I finally got my '86 2.8 running again last night. After thinking it was a battery or alternator all this time, it was the battery CABLE, very FUBAR after close inspection. After changing it out, I drove the car around town on a couple errands last night. Since they were quick stops and i hardly even left the car, I left it running so the new battery would get a healthy charge.

Obviously the engine started running hot every time i stopped for more than a minute. When i drove it home and stopped it, I realized i left the power window down. I figured i'd start up the car again immediately and raise the window.

The starter wouldn't crank. I just went out there today and it started up first time cold.

Just to confirm my thoughts: the excessive heat around the starter is what made it NOT crank, right?

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http://www.tcnj.edu/~esposit3

• '89 Trans AM, 305 TPI, 5-spd
• '86 Firebird, 2.8, Auto

 

The most likely culprit is the heat on the starter/solenoid. I think a bad battery can do the same thing sometimes too. If your battery is really old it's something to think about. If the battery is relatively fresh i'd point more at the starter.
...ed

 

Thanks a million, Ed! This is good news since I have to sell the car soon. I'm actually GLAD is was heat since the car was running very hot at the time.

PS - Anyone wanna buy a 2.8 that's apparently now in good condition? See my sig.

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http://www.tcnj.edu/~esposit3

• '89 Trans AM, 305 TPI, 5-spd
• '86 Firebird, 2.8, Auto