Ok so the issues continue. Car is running but very difficult to start however runs normalish when warm. The car has a suspected cracked head. Air is getting into the coolant system. Can only assume from the exhaust. HG seems fine, and has been running this way for a few months now. Overheats 100m down the road from stone cold (I kid u not). However with the thermostat out there is not problems. Not using water or oil, and no mixing of the two.
So that's what's happening. I think I have the ignition relay issue. Tested with a n unknown one, no change. Replaced the IAC with a wreck one, that one seems better. So...I changed the ignition relay with the twin one form Talasas thread. But it appears my starter is now dead. Had been driving the car in limp mode awaiting these relays. Battery seemed it was dying as the cranking was getting weaker and weaker each time I started the car. Battery is brand new (MRV48). However it did not appear dead at all. Didn't think much of this. Assumed it was battery issue.
Today I did the relay install, attempt to start, nothing. No click dead as a door nail.
Tested the spare L series starter with battery and jumper leads, works. Did the same with the Lib one. Started once, then dead. But I can feel the solenoid attempting or energising. Leave it for 1 beer. Same again, cranks then dead. So pulls the starter apart. Below is a pic of both the brushes and the sticker.
So Im hoping someone can tell me:
a) are the brushed stuffed? They look it to me, but not exp with brushes.
b) are they replaceable, a search says yes, but from where?
c) ball park cost? Car will be scrapped in under 12 months, need to avoid spending unnecessarily.
I'm hoping this will solve all my recent issues with starting and idling when cold.