Starter Noise
CAUTION:
Never operate starter for periods of more than 15 seconds. Excessive cranking can cause starter to overheat. Allow starter to cool for at least 2 minutes after each time operated.
NOTE:
Check flywheel ring gear for damage.
- A high-pitched whine, heard while cranking (before engine starts), indicates excessive distance between starter pinion and flywheel. If high-pitched whine is heard after engine starts and key is released, distance between starter pinion and flywheel is too small. Locate high spot on flywheel before checking pinion-to-flywheel clearance. Pinion-to-flywheel clearance should be .020" (0.5 mm). See Fig 1.
- If loud, siren-like whoop sound is heard after the engine starts, drive assembly is likely defective. If rumble, growl or knock is present as starter is coasting to a stop after starting engine, starter armature is bent or unbalanced.
- If diagnosis indicates pinion should be closer to flywheel, ensure proper starter motor was installed. During initial starter motor installation, shim(s) are not used. If shim(s) are present, remove as necessary.
- If diagnosis indicates starter should be moved away from flywheel, add shims as necessary. If using .039" (1.0 mm) long shims, do not exceed 2 shims. If using .015" (.38 mm) long shims, do not exceed 3 shims. If condition is not corrected, and pinion-to-flywheel clearance has been reached, short shims may be added to outer side of starter motor bolt using .015" (.38 mm) shims. For starter removal, see STARTER under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION .