MGB Starter motor perhaps ?

[cybermat]

Hello gang

The MGB is getting a bit sketchy as to when it feels like turning over at the moment.
Ill turn the key and nothing, a minute or so later Ill trun it and the flipping thing starts as normal.
Quite embarrassing at the petrol pumps

stick her in reverse and push her forwards till the engine turns and she then generally starts ok though even that can be hit and miss.
I am thinking starter motor probably on its way and I am looking at them now online, before I go and buy one I thought I would check in with you lads just in case there is something obvious that I may have over looked (being a newbie to all this).

[TerryG]

Do you hear the solenoid click when you turn the key? it is possible that you have a dirty ignition switch or faulty solenoid.
Testing them is pretty easy if you have a multi-meter. I am not sure if you can dismantle and clean them on an MGB but they will be cheaper than a starter.

[cybermat]

Thats a handy tip thank you Terry - I will give it a try later on, Ill have to dig out a multimeter.

[Luxobarge]

Agree with above.

Moved to "Technical Queries"....

[Young Farmer]

Take the solenoid off and clean the mounting, could be that it's not earthing to the body. When you push the car in gear does the starter spin but not engage? If so it could be either a dirty shaft on the starter preventing the gear engaging with the flywheel or a damaged ring gear on the flywheel.