Spinning starter

[VR4TwinTurbo]

All right so I have done some searches and well I'm not getting the answers I need so here is my problem

I have a 94 tsi awd auto. I went to start it this morning and all I here is a spinning starter. I know its the starter and not nothing else. I have only had the car for a month so im still learning its ins and outs but it has always started kinda funny. My theory is its not catching the flywheel and I need to turn the flywheel somehow. I can't push start it because its an auto so how to I advance the flywheel? Can I just turn the crank once or so or not. Any suggestions are welcome Thanks

Jason

 

[Musashi450]

Yeah it sounds like the starter isn't engaging the flywheel before before it starts spinning. Sounds like the solenoid has gone bad. Take it out and run it to your local autoparts store (autozone, advanced auto etc.) and get it tested.

 

[VR4TwinTurbo]

allrigh so i got it tested and it was fine...so i out it back in and it starts...the only problem is when i first put the battery in i put it in backwards...stupid previous owner screwed up all th e batter connections so its hard to tell which one. It started fine but not my abs flickers on and off and after i turn the car off the battery is as dead as a dornail. After i jump start it it runs fine but i must have blew a relay somewhere beceause the battery isn't getting charged
Help

Jason

 

[Musashi450]

I'm pretty sure doing that can fry the alternator, and from what it sounds like its a sure bet. Hate to say it but rip it out and get it tested! My guess on the started then is that it was a loose connection (maybe internally?). Actually a quick test you can perform is to check with a voltmeter what the voltage of the car is while its running. I believe it should be somewhere in the range of 14-14.5. If you dont notice an increase in the voltage than your alternator is no doubt fried.

 

[zxdude]

if you alternator is bad... i got a few for sale... mine went out so i went bid crazy on ebay and won 4 on them ... well if your intrested shoot me an email [email protected]

-Adam