Posted by JohnD [162.158.78.200] on Thursday, October 06, 2016 at 06:58:42 :
In Reply to: Re: why not a newer smaller unit? posted by Jim in Litchfield Park [162.158.141.30] on Wednesday, October 05, 2016 at 00:46:11 :
Hi Jim,
I agree with those that believe your starter is staying engaged to the flywheel while you are driving. The question is ----- is it because of an electrical problem, or is it a mechanical problem?
Hook up a temporary 12 volt light bulb of your choice, and connect the positive lead of the bulb directly to the big battery cable on the starter itself. That bulb should only light when you are cranking the starter. Drive around the block to make sure the light stays off to prove to yourself that the starter is not electrically staying on after the engine is running.
If the above test proves OK, next test to see if the starter stays engaged mechanically.
Remove any bands or shields that cover the back of the starter temporarily. You want to be able to see the starter armature. Start the engine and look at the armature to see if it continues to rotate after the engine is running, there is the problem. Try loosening the starter mount bolts and see if a little looseness allows the starter drive to disengage without fail. Sometimes dirt where the starter mounts to the bell housing cocks the starter a little causing it to wedge the starter drive against the flywheel.
Lastly, you need to make sure the shop used the correct starter drive. Even though the drive may have the correct number of teeth, the rotation may be wrong, or the pitch of the teeth may be wrong.
I feel your pain, I have had this happen many times myself.
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