When you up your engine’s compression ratio and power, OEM starters can be overtaxed and burn out. Here, we look at high-performance starters with the extra cranking power you need. more details on -
https://www.carid.com/articles/high-torque-starters-ensure-your-engine-cranks-every-time.html
FYI - The Ferrari F355 has about the same displacement as your motor with a 3.5L V8. The factory compression ratio is 11:1. Ferarri used a run of the mill Denso starter. No high torque unit. Your motor may be special in the e9, but there is nothing novel about 11:1 compression.
My car developed an odd symptom. Starting while cold was a delayed start. Turn the key to start and the car would not start. Hold the key in start...
www.ferrarichat.com
You can pick up any one of the BMW starters that
@HB Chris mentioned from Autozone or the like. If it doesn’t help you can always return it.
Alternatively, you can buy a $20 ford starter relay. Run the skinny ignition wire that goes to the existing solenoid to the starter relay. Run large gauge wire from your battery to the big post on the relay, and the other big post to the starter solenoid that
originally accepted the skinny wife. That will give your starter solenoid plenty of juice and rule out a weak signal from your ignition switch.
FWIW this isn’t a hair brained idea. I used this well documented method on my MkII jetta to combat hot start issues. After the car was at operating temp it wouldn’t restart. Starter would just click. This was an approach addressed my issues. Personally, I wouldn’t do it in my e9, but it’s another inexpensive diagnostic approach.
Lastly, welding wire makes good inexpensive battery cable. I’m sure I’ve mentioned this before but why not…
Hi Folks, A few years ago I mentioned that I would make my own battery cables and post a DIY. I finally found the need to replace the cables so here we are. This isn’t meant for those that are going after a factory look. The cables aren’t that obvious in black but marine terminals won’t look...
e9coupe.com