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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1965, Lincoln Continental

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Expert: - 7/22/2008


Question
Car doesn't start- engine does not turn; No clicking from the starter; has a new battery. I believe the guy working on the car attempted to install the battery and mixed up the pos and neg cables; the starter clicked before I gave him the car. How and where do I start checking? Thank you- any help is appreciated!

Answer
Hi Ed:
If the guy working on your car connected the battery backwards, the battery is most likely damaged. Also, there could be possible damage to the Started Relay and Voltage Regulator Circuit. First, test the new battery to see if there is a full charge. If not, then start with a fresh/new battery.  However, if the battery seem OK, but the engine still won't turn over, put a battery booster or fresh/new battery on it anyway, to try to start it. Sometime even a damaged battery may give a fault charge reading when reverse polarity has been applied.

If the above all fails, then take a look at the start relay/solenoid. There is a good chance it was fried in the process. However, hopefully it didn't also fry the starter.

Hope this helps...

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

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All around the Internet

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I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

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I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

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