Slow starter motor 2000SC

[Speedfreak]

My starter motor spins, very slowly, and lately has got worse since I fitted my new distributor. The car always starts, but it never sounds like it will. However…… if I take the HT Lead off the top of the coil, the starter motor spins the engine around, probably as good as it did when the car was brand-new! Therefore, why is it slower when I reconnect the Distributor to the coil? Thanks..

 

[DAK]

I have seen this when the timing is badly out (too far advanced). If the cylinders are firing before the piston reaches top of travel, it can really slow the crank speed down. It might be worth trying to retard the timing slightly and see if there is any change.

 

[Speedfreak]

That would make a lot of sense as my timing gun is not working so I have just timed it by ear so to speak, that’s a job for Saturday morning fingers crossed.