Replaced the starter in my 69 a long time ago, and that was followed by some other electrical work. Started strong. I later found that my mechanic - who I love dearly - or one of his assistants, removed my starter during an installation. It wasn't put back correctly, because I noticed that it sounded different when started after that point - kind of a grind. I put it back correctly - he used the wrong bolt and it wasn't seated properly. I haven't spoken with him about this, because it was a while ago . . . but I'm kind of ticked about that.

In the preceding months, on every fifth start it seemed, I got a start that I can best describe as VROOM, then an audible, high pitched SCHWING! (this Wayne's World reference is the best duplication of the sound I can think of) It isn't the sound of a brand new starter - it sounds more like it is related to the family of grinding sounds. I checked the starter to see if there was any give in the bolts and if it looked correctly seated, and it still is. Never needed to be shimmed, and I'm reluctant to try reseating it and shimming it this time.

Today, I heard the sound on two consecutive starts, and I'm wondering what I'm dealing with. Runs good - it is just an embarrasing sound when everybody is looking at you in a parking lot waiting for you to start. Any ideas?

 

Why not swap it out with another starter and see if you still get the problem, that is what I would try, quick and easy. Good luck.

 

When/should I be concerned about flywheel trouble? Is a visual inspection of it with the starter out sufficient?

 

You say it is "seated properly" now. So I assume you measured the distance between the starter shaft and the flywheel? I also engage the gears to the flywheel manually and inspect clearance. It sounds like either the starter is staying engaged too long to the flywheel or it's trying to engage on an area of the flywheel that is worn. I would look closely at both of these areas and wouldn't be surprised if a shim is in order. I have even had blocks that weren't cut/cast properly and had to cut a shim in half and install it under one side of the starter.

ltlevil

 

No, I must say I haven't. Where can I find the correct distances/clearance?

 

I'll see what I can find printed, but right off the top of my head 1/8" clearance between the shaft and flywheel is what you need. A 1/8" allen wrench is generally what I use, however I would see if I could find any info from the manufacturer of the starter. I'll see what I can dig up and either post it if I can or I'll send it to you.

ltlevil