Berlingo 1.4 (2002) not starting

[berlingo_pete]

After getting the clutch replaced, I have now come up against a new problem - the Berlingo does not start.

I have checked the battery (it is new anyway) with a multimeter, it was 12.6V, so I took it out and charged it (showing 13.7 now). 

When I insert the key into the ignition the radio works, the handbrake and battery lights do light up, the petrol gauge reads true (1/2 tank left) , the headlamps work (and when I try to start they dim - I read that this means there is current going to the starter), there is a buzzing noise in the engine bay and when I turn the key to start there is a "click" but nothing else.

Does this sound like it's time for a new starter? Are there any other tests I can do (I do have a multimeter)? 

Had a look on google, but thought I would post on here as this forum is a fountain of knowledge.

I also have access to a good jack and axle stands.

Thank you.

[V6BOY]

I still wouldn't rule out a bad battery even if newish, battery needs to be load tested to confirm. Can you try a known good battery from another vehicle? Then I would check all wiring on the starter for damage and corrosion give it a few taps with a hammer.

[Sherbingo]

My berlingo once decided not to start while I was out and about. Starter motor clicked so I got it replaced but it never gave any signs of wearing so I was a little dubious.

Turns out it was the battery. Its a shame people who call themselves mechanics don't actually want to diagnose anything, all they want to do is go with the odds and hope.

Maybe try and jump the car from another vehicle to see if it makes any difference? I think that would work but I'm not a mechanic so I couldn't say for sure.

Good luck.

[berlingo_pete]

Thank you V6BOY and Sherbingo. 

Regarding the battery, I bought it in August (the battery), so it should be spot on. I thought it could be the battery, so tried jump starting it from my other car, and it did not help. I swapped the battery with the one from the other car, still "click" but starter not turning.

I am going to have a look at the starter wiring tomorrow, as it's getting a bit dark now (also have to jack up the car as I can't really see much from the top). Will also give the starter a few taps with a hammer.

Thank you for all the suggestions.

[cancunia]

Maybe the earth from the battery to the engine block? If you have a jump lead you could try to connect from the negative battery terminal to the block.

[Sherbingo]

It may have just siezed up, I'm not sure why exactly but people certainly like to hit them to get them going again. A guy I worked with done this daily for over a year in a transit until one day the gears just stopped connecting. I think it will make a whirring sound apposed to a clicking sound if the gears have all worn but don't quote me on that.

If it is just stuck and you manage free it you may find the problem just disappears. For a good while anyway

[Tomcat3]

As Cancunia said check that earth straps have been reconnected after clutch swap. If it worked before it must be something not connected.

[berlingo_pete]

Just wanted to say thank you for all the suggestions.
Tried hitting it with a hammer, but it did not help.
Connected the -ve to the engine with a jump lead, still no difference.
All the wiring seemed fine.
Decided to bite the bullet and change the starter.
Looking through google, it seemed quite complex, especially the lowest bolt, however I was lucky. It turned out that when changing the clutch, the mecahnic left out the lowest bolt. He also left the bolt which screws in from the gearbox side sitting on top of the gearbox, so the only bolt holding the starter was the one closest to the bulkhead. I am no expert, but maybe that's what caused the demise of the starter. 
Starter removed, I tried to test it with jump leads and bridging the solenoid terminal (sorry, don't know the right terminology) - there were a few sparks, but no life in the starter.
Went online, took old starter to GSF, walked out £46 lighter and with a new starter. Refitted and all starts nicely.

I haven't seen many DIY write ups for the 1.4i (mine also has LPG, so slightly more wires/hoses in the way) so hope this helps:

1) Remove Airbox
2) Look where the engine meets the gearbox (below the plastic manifold) and you will see the top of the starter.
3) Look for where the wires connect to the starter. Renive the thicker nut first (12mm) and this should release 2 wires (one goes to the battery, not sure about the other), you will now have access to the smaller nut (8mm) holding the thinner wire, remove that.
4) Now renove the 3 bolts holding the starter (13mm). I was able to do this with the car on the floor, but you may have to go from below to reach the lower bolt.
5) Remove the starter (can be done from the top, just manouvre it around the wires/hoses).

Follow the steps above to fit a new one. Also, if you are struggling to remove the wires (step 3) then perform step 4 first.

I hope this helps.

[berlingo_pete]

Forgot to add...the diagram in the tread below was very helpful. Sorry if links not allowed, just don't know how to copy the diagram.
https://citroenc3owners.com/tips-for-any...-t984.html

[Tomcat3]

Glad you got it sorted but I would be absolutely livid to find bolts missing for a job you pay good money to do. It makes you wonder what else he bodged doing the job give anything he will have touched a check over for peace of mind.