Grinding starter

[g_man1972]

Back with another question. Been driving my Deli for a week and so far so good, everything works which is a relief. Only problem I have found is that out of around 30 starts or so I have had that loud ugly sound of the starter turning but not engaging the engine 3 times, it's like the same sound if you accidently turn the engine over when it has already started. Anyone else have this? What could be the cause and how do I fix it?

Thanks folks, hope it isn't too serious
Gary

[EricN]

Haven't had it with my Deli but your going to have to pull out your starter. First, check the pinion gear on the starter, make sure it moves freely etc. It will probably be chewed up and need to be replaced. Next you need to watch the teeth on the flexplate while someone turns the engine over by hand. Look for any signs of damage to them (yes all of them). Cross your fingers it isnt that killing your starter pinion.

[docsavage]

I have the same thing on mine. 50,000 km and it is still going strong. I think there is a bad spot on the flywheel, and every once in a while it stops there and a few grinds it catches and starts. Some day I will get to looking at it.

James

[josh]

I have the same thing on mine. 50,000 km and it is still going strong. Some day I will get to looking at it.

I think the only reason it would ever need to be addressed is if you had to park in front of the liquor store everyday and have the starter sound ugly and not work when all the ford owners are admiring their boring old fords... now that could be embarrassing. Then they definitely would not think you are cool hey James? has that ever happened to you before? is this on topic?

Josh

[g_man1972]

LOL, okay this is something that I will put out of my mind then unless it gets worse/more regular. Ignoring the noise sounds much better than figuring out how to remove a starter... not a mechanical genius I am.

cheers

[Kuan]

My moms '87 Toyota Camry has done that for the last 10-12 years. Its still running strong though.

[docsavage]

I have actually discovered that mine only grinds in crowded parking lots and gas stations...

James