Technical Starter problems

[Arbataxuk]

I have a 1999 ducato 13 (233) I think, Swift motorhome. Although it was registered in 1999 i believe it to be a 1998, pre facelift model. The problem i have is the when i try to start it i just get the started solenoid fluttering. Sometimes the motor will try to turn for a second. Its as though the battery is flat. After extensive tests, which included a jump from a running vehicle with a known good battery with my battery disconnected, I think get the same. I've replaced the starter motor and the battery is fully charged and only about 18months old. I still have more tests to do but I think it maybe the starter relay and/or connections. The problem is i cant find any information as to the location of the starter relay. The fuse box is in the glove box and there are a number of relays beneath it. Does anyone know where the starter relay is please.
Thanks

 

[Communicator]

I am usually sceptical when relays are suspected, however the starter solenoid draws considerable current, so given the age of the vehicle, erosion of the relay contacts is possible.
I have attached a copy of the starter circuit for the x230 model, which I hope will be applicable. The diagram is an extract from the German language workshop manual in the "Downloads" section. The English translations have been added by me. The starter relay is shown as having a red base.
The relays in the x230 are located as you describe. Relays behind the lower dash panel have been shown in photos posted on forum, perhaps the same location?

 

[Arbataxuk]

I am usually sceptical when relays are suspected, however the starter solenoid draws considerable current, so given the age of the vehicle, erosion of the relay contacts is possible.
I have attached a copy of the starter circuit for the x230 model, which I hope will be applicable. The diagram is an extract from the German language workshop manual in the "Downloads" section. The English translations have been added by me. The starter relay is shown as having a red base.
The relays in the x230 are located as you describe. Relays behind the lower dash panel have been shown in photos posted on forum, perhaps the same location?

Thankyou very much for that. I will investigate the relay when I get some time.

 

[Arbataxuk]

Just thought I'd let you know that it wasn't the relay, it was a poor connection on the +ve battery terminal. It appeared ok but wasn't.

My next problem is where to find the split charge relay. The alternator is charging the starter battery but doesn't appear to charge the leisure battery. Until I find the relay I can't check the system.

 

[Googlebot]

Just thought I'd let you know that it wasn't the relay, it was a poor connection on the +ve battery terminal. It appeared ok but wasn't.

My next problem is where to find the split charge relay. The alternator is charging the starter battery but doesn't appear to charge the leisure battery. Until I find the relay I can't check the system.

Usually in the box that controls all the leisure systems in the back?

 

[Arbataxuk]

Usually in the box that controls all the leisure systems in the back?

Thanks, I'll have a look.

 

[Communicator]

Given the age of the vehicle, I suspect that the split charge and fridge relays will be under the bonnet. A popular location for such relays is under the black plastic hood at the rear centre of the engine bay. Fuses for both starter and habitation battery connections may be in the same location. However common sense demands that the fuses should be as close to the respective batteries as practicable. Faults due to corrosion at the relay terminals are not unknown, particularly on the thinner wires connecting the relay coils. (Terminals 85 & 86.) Do take note that with fuses in place, both terminals 30, and 87 on the split charge relay will be live at 12V. Best to find and check appropriate fuses as a first step.