2004 r53

I have had the mini taken apart few weeks now while waiting on parts, and finally got it mostly back together. It was cranking/starting fine before this.

Will the mini start without the front clip on? I was wanting to start it and check for leaks before putting it 100% back together, but when I turn the key nothing happens. Lights/dash all good and bright, no check engine lights. It doesnt do anything when I turn they key, no starter action.

Now besides replacing the supercharger, I also replaced the ignition switch on the interior. So this problem could very well be the ignition switch. It is a new one, not used. I was having trouble with constant key in door chime and thought replacing the ignition switch would help.

So, to summarize.. will the mini start without front clip installed? And, would a bad ignition switch cause a no start/crank, and is there a way to test/bypass it just to see?



Tests done/additional info:
Battery is good, tested good and I hooked a jumper to it to be sure. 14v and same thing.
I do hear fuel pump and everything prime when I turn key, and when I turn it to start I do hear a relay clicking under the steering wheel somewhere.

 

Fixed it. I dug down to the starter (which is terrible by the way) and wacked at it while someone was trying to start it, and got it to turn over. Its been sitting couple of weeks, and guess just got stuck from inaction

 

That's what I call a WPHB repair.

[Well Placed Hammer Blow...]

Good show!
robj