RESTORING STARTIX SYSTEM ON 1933-1936 ROVERS

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SX5 1933 Startix box before

Dismantled and cleaned up

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VIDEO - Startix Automatic restart solenoid description and repairs
Note: this shows a 6 volt system whereas Rover used a 12 volt unit

LUCAS "STARTIX" AUTOMATIC STARTING 

This car is fitted with Lucas "Startix" automatic starting equipment which enables the car to be started by the operation of a single switch. If the engine stalls, as sometimes happens when changing gear or manoeuvring in traffic, the Lucas "Startix" automatically re-starts the engine.

In addition to automatic starting, Lucas "Startix" provides for independent ignition control and for hand operation. This alternative method of control enables the driver to switch on the ignition and observe his petrol gauge, etc., without starting the engine. It also provides an alternative way of starting the car in the event of a run-down battery.

The equipment comprises a switch-box, usually fitted on the engine side of the dash, and a switch with three positions marked "OFF", "AUTO", "HAND":

INSTRUCTIONS FOR NORMAL OPERATION.

1. Make sure the gear lever is in neutral.
2. Adjust the throttle, choke and ignition timing controls to the usual position for starting.
3. Turn the key in the switch to the "AUTO" position. The engine will then be cranked by until it fires, when the starter motor will be automatically switched off.

FOR NON-AUTOMATIC STARTING.

1. Turn the control key to the "HAND" position.
2. Operate press button switch firmly. This controls the starter motor in the normal manner, and it should be released immediately the engine fires.

If the battery is run down, the car should be started by hand with the key in the “HAND” position.

POINTS TO BE OBSERVED IN SERVICE.
It should be remembered that whenever the engine stops, Lucas Startix automatically cranks the engine. It is important, therefore, when the engine stalls in gear to de-clutch so as to obtain normal starting conditions.

If, when the car is running, it is noticed that the engine is being started repeatedly, this may be due to incorrect throttle opening.

In this case, the throttle opening should be re-set. Should this not be effective, the reason should be investigated. Continual starting will, of course, run down the battery and must be avoided.

If, for any reason, the dynamo tails to generate (indicated by no ammeter reading on the charge side when the engine is running) the car must be started with the switch in the "HAND" position.

It is advisable to start in the "HAND" position if the engine is to be left running for any length of time unattended, e.g., When the engine is warming up first thing in the morning.

The Lucas Startix automatic switch is adjusted to the correct setting at the works, and, as it requires no further attention, it is sealed. In the unlikely event of trouble occurring in the unit, the seal should not be broken, but the complete unit should be returned to the nearest Service Depot for examination.