Ignition problem with VR Commodore

[hopping-mad]

For the past couple of weeks my VR has been having a bit of an ignition issue. When I turn the key and crank it over it sounds like it doesn't want to start. It seems to hesitate for a split second and then turns over ok. It finally s**t itself yesterday while my wife was out but she managed to get a jump start. I got a new battery which I put in but the problem is still there. Could it now be an alternator? If so how do I replace it? Keep in mind I'm not the most mechanically minded but with direction I can do a few bits and pieces (after all the water pump i put in is ok after 8 months!!)
Thanks for any advice.

[hako]

Check for logged codes first as it should give you an idea:
Checking error codes VR/VS (Revised)
It may ignition key related but do the codes check first. Good Luck.

[kopper69]

You need a multimeter to sus this one out. If you dont have one, get one. Available from anywhere, dick smith, supercheap etc etc. Cheap one will do just fine. Measure the battery voltage when the car is off and tell us that reading. Watch the voltage of the battery when the car is starting and tell us that reading. Watch the voltage while the car is running and tell us that reading. From those 3 readings we can tell you if you have a problem with your electrical system.

[hopping-mad]

Thanks, will get onto it and let you know the results.

[hopping-mad]

multimeter read between 13.5v and 14v for all 3 tests. Have since been told it could be the starter motor. What do you think?

[moff_man]

what was the reading whilst cranking just before it fires. shouldnt be much lower than 10v if it si than more than likley the starter is drawing exsissive current and thets the problem

[gsxrdan]

first post is a bit ambiguous, but if it does nothing at all when you first turn the key, try pushing against the auto shifter as you turn the key in case its the selector switch. I push on mine as a matter of habit now or it wont start - anyone know how to adjust the switch?