My cold start cable started vibrating and pushing itself out a small amount. Maybe 1/8" or so, but it rattles and never did before. Last monday I pulled the cable to start it after leaving work and it stuck on. I pushed it down with a long dowel rod, pulled it again and it stuck again, but this time not as bad as I just had to push it in and hold it in. It went right into place then. Since it feels sticky and I don't know if it is cable related which is an easy fix or if there is something wrong with the advance mechanism that I should be worried about. I wouldn't think if it were just a cable problem you could feel the engine vibration through the cable like I can. AND since it is all new it just worries me.
Let me know if you all have had this problem and if it was something worth worrying over.
Another thought is it has 11,000 miles or so on it and maybe it is just not so new anymore?
Mine has done that for years. When I pull it out I have to slam it back in to ensure that it goes all the way (and stays). Meanwhile, I keep a wad of paper jammed in the top of it to stop it from rattling against the dash.
Touch a test light to the exposed end and see if its trying to act as a ground for some reason.
Recheck adjustment on the pump end of cable.
Recheck clip is in place that holds cable secure in the IP bracket.
Lucas, the lever on my '86 will sometimes come back out like halfway or so. It's worse in cold weather.
For me, I can just push it back in and hold it for a couple of seconds...and it will stay in then.
I never really gave it any more thought as it weren't no big deal beyond that!
Occasionally, I worry when I turn the steering wheel and nothing happens...but, beyond THAT......
FOUND!!!!!!!
I spent the night standing on my head putting the 2 bolts that hold the IP bracket onto the engine in front. One was gone completely the other was the reason my cold start was sticking. The head of the bolt was keeping it from adavancing any further as it was against the bottom of the lever. Also, vibrating against that same bolt.
OOPS!