Engine seized? Or not so serious?

Hey guys. A few weeks ago, my 86 Cutlass died coming off the highway. It seems as if the engine seized...but it could also be other problems. I tried testing the starter, but that works perfect. I think it's the battery...but I don't really wanna shell out 60 bucks for a new battery if it's not that. I think that maybe it's not getting enough power to the altenator to turn the engine over, so do you think that a new battery could fix this? When I try to start it, it makes a single click noise as I turn the ignition, then another when I let it go. Sometimes I get a little 'whine' almost, too. The altenator tries to turn, but only in one spot. Any help would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Sounds like electrical if it just died.

You should test the battery in the car. It should have at least 11 volts.
Have you tried to jump start it using cables and another vehicles battery? The power to the alternator has nothing to do with whether the car will start or not it just charges the battery. If you have a serpentine belt "single drive belt system" and one of the pulleys or accessories has locked up this can be enough to kill the engine and keep it from turning over.

Check a few of the basics out first before you go buying replacement parts.

I actually tried jumping like two weeks ago, but to no avail. I will try one more time tomorrow. Thanks for you help.

Several months ago my '94 cutlass supreme died. ( lucky for me, right at my friends place.) I got about the same reaction as you with your car when I tried to start it. When I tried to get a jump, it didn't work. My battery gage went up a little then back down.. you may need a new alt (or a rebuilt, which costs less.) but I really can't say too much. Just thought I would try to help.

I have frequently seen alternators cause the problems you describe. Try disconnecting the electrical connectors on the alt, then try. These units draw a tremendous amount of torque, especially when resisting the starter. You might also try removing the belt and try the starter while it is disconnected. Some food for thought. Ray

Your problem may not be electrical, but hydraulic. If your Cutlass has the 3800 engine with a plastic upper intake plenum, you may have water in the engine.

Pull your spark plugs (all of them) and try to crank it. If it spits water out, your engine has ingested water.