Starting Fault

[squinty1982]

hi everyone here goes my partner was drivin my 1996 2.8 glx and it cut out and wouldnt restart when i got to the car it just clicked so ive changed the starter this morning and it still does the same but ive also noticed that if u turn the key there is smoke coming from one of the earth wires and cant find why i really need some help thanks.

[Smilge]

Squinty ..... when the starter just "clicks" this sounds like the starter solenoid is operating but there isn't enough current from the battery to turn the motor. This could either be a flattened or duff battery or, by the sound of your problem, wiring to / from the battery / starter motor via the main engine compartment fuse box. I would start by looking at all the cable connections and giving them a good clean or if you can, replace the main cables as it sounds like the earth has high resistance as the insulation has started to melt.