Exhausts and Starter Motors

[Steve Fleming]

The starter motor on my Superlight is gradually being fried by the under bonnet heat, mainly from the exhaust headers, despite having an insulation blanket on it.

 

I have some insulation tape and ties from Demon Tweeks which I intend to put on the exhaust headers this weekend.

 

I am sure that there's somebody out there who has done this before, so answers to the following would be very handy:

 

1. How easy is it to wrap the headers if they remain in situ?

2. Or, is it easier to do it with them off?

3. If 2, what is the procedure for taking them off the head?

4. Can this be done without taking the engine out? (car has four into one non cat)

5. Do I have to remove the diagonal chassis strut?

6. Do I have to remove the water pipe that runs just above the headers which means presumably draining and refilling the water system, radiator, etc.?

 

Any other pointers, helpful suggestions much appreciated.

 

Steve

[Andrew Dent]

1. Not that easy in situ, can be done, but difficult.

2. Yes it is easier, and the end job definietely looks better.

3. Pull the exhaust off, remove cross strut, undo the bolts holding the pipes to the head. Wriggle the pipes free, and then wrap. They do come out!

4. Didnt take my engine out for this one.

5. Yes

6. No

 

I also have had the fried starter problem. Very embaressing when trying to restart when in a very public place, or in traffic. I have replace the starter with an uprated guarenteed to stat every time SIR from Caterham. Still wrapped in heat blanket, and the pipes are also wrapped as well.

 

I have a repaired starter if needed.

 

Andrew

 

[Steve Fleming]

Thanks Andrew, I will go ahead on Saturday using standard K series replacement gaskets.

 

I will remove the starter motor whilst I am there and get it looked at to see if there is any permanent damage. Might have to take you up on your offer of a replacement one.

 

Steve