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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1978 Rolls Silver Shadow Limosine

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Expert: - 9/19/2010


Question
Hey Vern,
We just got our Rolls back from the shop and everything was going fine for a little while. After washing the car my father decided to keep the doors open to let out and humidity that had built up in the car. In the morning the car would not turn over or start. Checked the battery and it seems to be fully charged, the lights on the panels come on and everything turns on, except nothing from the engine. On the Ignition, where the key goes in there is a GEN light that stays on, I don't know if that is relevant but I'm hoping you can help. How do I get my car started?

Answer
Hi Tarek:
Leaving the doors open all night with interior lights on will drain power from battery. Although the battery seems fine, there is NOT enough power to turn-over the starter in a Rolls Royce. You need at least 600 to 800 cold cranking amps for that. I'm sure there are plenty of amps to run the lights. Only need about 50 to 100 amps for that. Get your battery charged and make sure the battery is correct size for that car. I recommend 850 cold cranking amps.

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Vern Bullock

Expertise

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.

Experience

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.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

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

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

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

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