occasionally starter sticking on Audi 100

[quk@sievers.com (Phil Payne)]

In message <ce9_9705251815@dido.iaf.nl> robertwil@dido.iaf.nl (Robert Willemsen) writes:

> since some time on starting the engine, the starter-motor sprocket (?) stays
> engaged in the flywheel.. When I turn off the contact the motor keeps on
> revoluting slowly (without actually starting :-)..
> After turning the key anew, up to now the spocket was freed and all was fine
> again..

It's a pre-engaging design - the starter solenoid moves the cog into the 
flywheel before starting the electric motor.
 
Sticking in has a number of causes.   The cog moves back out under spring power 
- the spring may have gone weak.  There are also two pivots - the end of the 
solenoid shaft and the lever's fulcrum that might need lubrication.
 
Personally, I'd recommend _against_ lubricating the motor shaft and cog - the 
whole area is, to a degree, open to the air and crap can accumulate.  Derusting 
is a good idea, though.
 
The motor is pretty robust and is only held on by a couple of bolts.  If you 
take it off, be _SURE_ to disconnect the battery first.  The main battery to 
starter connection can cause serious damage if it shorts to the body.


--
 Phil Payne
 phil@sievers.com
 Committee Member, UK Audi [ur-]quattro Owners Club