I think you mean "...the engine turns over, but dosen't start."  The phrase
"turns over" means the engine will crank - the starter engages, physically
turning the componets of the engine, during the start routine, or an
attempt to start.  The phrase seems most commonly used when trying to
describe problems associated with a non-starting engine - turn key to
start, starter engages, motors turns over (propelled by the starter), but
does not start.

Hope this helps.

Alan Bosch
'88 Wolfsburg (Phred)

"Michael A. Radtke" <m.radtke@ELM.AZ05.BULL.COM> on 02/17/99 09:53:05 AM

Please respond to "Michael A. Radtke" <m.radtke@ELM.AZ05.BULL.COM>

To:   vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
cc:    (bcc: Alan R Bosch/Sales/RA/Rockwell)
Subject:  Definition of "turn over" Please

Hello,

I am sorry if I am so out of touch, but I really don't know what the
meaning of the phrase "turn over" is in connection with starting engines.

I used to think that it meant that the started motor cranked the engine
freely, but the engine didn't start.  However, from the context that I have
seen the phrase used, I think that it means something else these days.  An
example might be, "The engine starts fine, but it doesn't turn over."

Thanks,

Mike  '84 GL   '58 Isetta