e30 316 not starting

[baur316]

HI , First timer here so apologies if repeating posts but I got a problem with my e30 316. Car is 1988 316 with weber carb, manual choke. Car was running well, no problems for 6 months but now I don't know if it will start when I turn ignition. Occasionally will start on first turn but other times when I turn key nothing, lights on dash, fuel gauge registers, likewise temperature gauge etc but nothing happens, just silence for all the world like it has no battery or an immobiliser is engaged and no it doesn't. Then after a few more turns it starts like nothing ever happened. Any ideas would be much appreciated. Thanks

[BenHar]

Quite likely that the ignition switch has worn where the lock connects to it.

Ben

[baur316]

Thanks any way to check that it is switch,
Declan

[daimlerman]

The lock barrel engages on the ign switch.
So unscrew the lower column shroud to expose the switch,it just clips onto the back of the lock.If inserting a small screwdriver into the switch and turning starts your engine,the switch is fine,in this case,check that when the key is turned that it engages the switch.