Volvo MD1 Dynastart

[penultimate]

I have recently acquired a Volvo MD1. I know it has been cold but I cannot explain why I am unable to start this engine. Compression is good and batteries are healthy and charged. I believe the problem lies with the Dynastart with which the previous owner had also experienced some problems.
Even with the engine decompressed the Dynastart is incapable of turning the engine over without my assistance on the starting handle. The battery monitor indicates that the Dynastart is drawing around 40 amps which, with the voltage on this load dropping to about 12v, is still more than 1/2 a HP. I reckon I can exert about 1/10 HP.
As the Dynastart doesn't seem to be getting warm where is all that power going?
Any suggestions for a resolution will be much appreciated.

 

[Porthandbuoy]

Check the gearbox is really in neutral. i.e. make sure the clutch is disengaged and the prop isn't turning when the engine is turned over.

If your Dynastart is drwaing 40 amps and not developing any torque the power must be getting dissipated as heat somewhere. Check for any warm or hot electrical connections.

 

[prescott56]

can you start by hand cranking?
MD1B's start easy enough oon hand crank.

If so i assume your dynastart has joined the many others some where unknown to mankind

Regards

 

[Hajukas]

I do have a dynastart on my engine (vire12) and it draws 8 amps and delivers .7 HP. If you want I do have a wiring diagram and workshop manual. For this please mail and I'll send it to you in PDF.

Cheers, Hajé

 

[Mirelle]

I have an MD2; the Dynastart is not terribly enthusiastic in cold weather but it will swing the engine with the decompressors down.

I agree with Mariposa; the gearbox on these engines can be tricky to get into neutral.

 

[Kyle2]

The Dynastart on my MD1B rapidly deteriorated this summer. At first it had to be turned a little to get going, then it needed assistance with the starting handle, then gave up altogether. On inspection, the commutator was badly pitted. I was advised that the cheapest option was to buy a new Dynastart, which I did. Perhaps you should take yours to a specialist for a check-up?

 

[knowlsey]

Hi, I also have problems with my dynastart, it starts the engine very well lots of power. But the charging circuit has gone, I see you've replaced your unit. I've tried without luck to do the same are you able to point me in the right direction for a supplier?

thanks

David

 

[bluedragon]

Saw this a bit late, but if nobody else has told you the answer is LSUK (Lucas). Depots in most cities I think. Bought mine last year. Get the present unit tested first though, it might be the voltage regulator not the dynastart. LSUK will test for free.

 

[knowlsey]

Many thanks, I tried LSUK in Southampton they could not help me, however I've a firm who are going to rewind the charging circuit, they hope!

I'll post again if it gets fixed!