jeffjohn

I found an excellent site that shows the solenoid current as a function of time recorded on an oscilloscope; the peak solenoid current on the model tested was up to 28A; much higher than I anticipated. A wornout ignition switch was causing the applied solenoid voltage to fall below the "battery voltage-0.5v" range and the starter was not always engageing. I have since routed the switch voltage to a 40A relay, pulling only 40mA (12/320 ) through the switch and connecting the solenoid directly from the battery by 3-core 2.5 cable, protected by a 40A inline fuse. All starting problems now cured.

no no!! the solenoid - not the starter!

many thanks techbod; that looks a good solution. I burned my in-line 10A fuse to the starter solenoid; what sort of current does it pull? jeffjohn

I have connected an emergency solenoid connection via a relay to get around an occasional sticky ignition start problem. This works fine but the switch is in the engine compartment. I can't find a route through to the cabin. Does anyone know a neat route via redundant wiring already in place for accessories etc. My 1996 1.9 D xantia is the basic model so I am hoping there might be a pre-wired route! thanks

Again - many thanks activa; I'm English, in France so I have to try to explain the problem to the chauvinistic french mechanic! Either I could get him to remove the unit and have a go, or I could risk him doing the repair! what do Citro charge for a replacement; any idea? Bound to be a fortune, I guess. Did you just reflow all the solder joints, or attempt to measure their resistance? thanks again for your support, jeffjohn France 44290.

many thanks indeed; that sounds 'spot on' to me1 Does anyone have a photograph or drawing I could use, showing the connections to tackle/ Thanks again activaturbo! Jeffjohn

I have these indications of a display board electrical problem. 1. the rev meter cuts out. 2. The speedo is fairly random but responds to a thump on the top of the dash. 3. the main and dip-beam indicator lights don't come on at all. All the other displays are ok. I would assume that these items might have a common earthing point. If I am right, does anyone know where it is positioned - my french garage does not!!!!! please help, anyone! Thanks Jeff 44290 Guénouvry, France