starter grind

[John P.]

Hi folks- My 65 327 roadster has begun to grind on the first two or three attempts at turning the key. The sound is exactly the same sound when obtains when turning the key while the engine is running. After these two attempts the car starts normally. I have not tried to look at the starter from below, or the flywheel. I believe system voltage is fine. Suggestions? Thanks

[Kenneth B.]

Re: starter grind

I would guess that the teeth on the starter are worn or the fly wheel has some wear.

[Edward J.]

Re: starter grind

John, sounds like the starter bendix drive needs replaced. At any point you will likely need to remove starter for a rebuild. and as Ken says inspect flywheel for some ground down teeth, If you contiune to use the starter it will slowly grind the edges of the flyweel teeth.

[Paul J.]

Re: starter grind

John, sounds like the starter bendix drive needs replaced. At any point you will likely need to remove starter for a rebuild. and as Ken says inspect flywheel for some ground down teeth, If you contiune to use the starter it will slowly grind the edges of the flyweel teeth.

John, as Ed said, your bendix is bad. You can either replace it, or rebuild it. Usually, the contacts are burned up and it's not getting enough power. You can either clean these with a file or replace them if needed. The starter is one of the easiest parts to rebuild on a car. The video below is not very good, but it shows you how to do it (the bendix part is near the end).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08rfLsM3aho

Paul

[John H.]

Re: starter grind

John -

Make sure the starter-to-block brace (from the forward end of the round armature case to the side of the block) is in place; if not, order one and install it. Many "mechanics" don't bother to re-install the brace when they change the starter, which can lead to premature failure of the Bendix and/or the starter nose. It's shown in your Assembly Manual, UPC 6, sheet B1, item #9.

[Joe L.]

Re: starter grind

John-----

You can obtain a new starter drive (Bendix) under GM #10470757, aka Delco #D-2051. This part has been fairly recently discontinued but your GM or Delco dealer ought to still be able to find you one. It's also available in the aftermarket from manufacturers like Standard Auto Parts under their number SDN1A.

Want an absolutely original-in-every-way starter drive? Look for an NOS GM #1954842 on eBay or otherwise. Of course, you don't need this one; the 10470757 or SMP replacement will do fine and no one will ever know the difference.

[John P.]

Re: starter grind

Thanks for all the replies.

[John P.]

Re: starter grind

I appreciate the input.