Re: Starter noise - imminent death?

[rwcohn@chinet.chinet.com (Robert W. Cohn)]

> 
> I've got an 86 4000q with 219k miles, and the starter makes a really raunchy
> noise upon startup (when else?). My mechanic says to just use it until it
> dies, but 

> 
> It is a sort of scratching noise that happens usually after you let go of the
> key, although it does it if you hold the key for a long time in the on
> position. 
> 
> I tried spraying huge quantities of WD-40 in the long narrow screw holes and
> then starting it - no good. Could it be that little solonoid gadget on the
> side that shoots it onto the flywheel? Could it be grinding the flywheel
> teeth?
> 
> Steve
> selick@acs.bu.edu
> 
The "solonoid gadget"  can and often does get stuck, engaged.
I've fixed a few Bosch starters by removing the solenoid coil, and 
iron slug that it pulls.  Then using lapping compound I lap the slug 
and coil assembly.  DO NOT use grease on the slug or bore of the solenoid.
Yeh Yeh, I know, what does he know, Right?  Unless it never gets a little
cold where you are the grease will cause the sloenoid to get stuck as well.
Graphite or a drying thin film lubricant like Dow Corning MolyKote is o.k.
There are several MolyKote formulas, so you'll need to read.  Next time I 
venture into the disaster zone I call the garage I'll try to make a note 
of its formula number.  Ask if you want the number.

Robert 
rwcohn@chinet.com
 
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