'87 Caprice always needs a jump!

MSNIQUE

MEMBER
1987 CHEVROLET CAPRICE

Hey there! I have a 1987 Caprice Classic that will only start if I jump it. It has a 445 Olds engine in it. Tested the battery, alternator and starter. All were fine. Once u jump it, it runs perfectly. Cut if off and it won't start back up without a jump. I also tuned the car up and replaced the alternator belt and a/c belt along with the battery cables. What could it possibly be?

6 Replies

MATHIASO

MECHANIC
1,209 POSTS

What happened when you start the car? What do you hear? Is the light on?

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Sunday, December 24th, 2006 AT 3:00 PM

MSNIQUE

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6 POSTS

I have power. Lights and everything come on. Cranks but won't turn over.

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Sunday, December 24th, 2006 AT 5:21 PM

IESUCK

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4 POSTS

[quote="MsNique"]I have power. Lights and everything come on. Cranks but won't turn over.[/Quote]

When it "Crank" do you hear the engine turning?

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Monday, December 25th, 2006 AT 7:58 AM

MSNIQUE

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When it "Crank" do you hear the engine turning?[/Quote:8335f3534a]
Yes.

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Tuesday, December 26th, 2006 AT 11:03 AM

FFAS23

MEMBER
25 POSTS

Did you or someone do a load test on your battery? Sounds to me like the battery may not have enough power in it to start your car. Maybe a bad cell in it and with the help of a jump from another car battery it will start. Next I would check the ground cable for a good ground. You may also have a bad solonoid or connection down at the starter. Sometimes the extra jolt from getting a jump will make it work. I still feel based on what you have said here that it may be your battery is at fought. Let us know how you make out.

Fred