Removal and installation, checking of the traction relay (BMW 3 Series E36)

If the traction relay is defective, the starter pinion does not engage with the flywheel ring gear. Because of this, the starter is unable to turn the engine. This defect occurs more often when the starter motor itself is defective.

Checking in the installed position

Move the gear shift lever to neutral position.



Short-circuit terminal 30 with an auxiliary wire (thick positive wire) and 50 (thin wire from the ignition switch), the starter pinion should rush forward (click) and the starter should start to rotate. If this does not happen, unscrew the starter and replace the traction relay.

Removal

Remove the starter and repeat the test in the removed state with the car battery. A "cigarette lighter" wire is suitable for connecting to terminal 50. If the starter pinion rushes forward, and the starter does not work, take the starter to a repair shop for repair.

If the starter gear does not move forward, unscrew and replace the traction relay.

Installation

Groove "F" must be filled with a suitable sealing compound.



Connect the traction relay to the starter plug and then tighten it.

Attach the wires to the traction relay. Check the operation of the starter.

Install the starter.