Question on starter bolts
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 633
Likes: 1
From: Hamilton, ON, Canada
Question on starter bolts
Does anyone know why the OEM starter mounting bolts have a knurled section on the shank? Is it O.K. to use normal Grade 8 bolts which don't have knurling?
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 24,125
Likes: 15
From: Columbia Missouri
Originally Posted by 75 Hot One
Does anyone know why the OEM starter mounting bolts have a knurled section on the shank? Is it O.K. to use normal Grade 8 bolts which don't have knurling?
The reason is because the diameter of the shaft of the bolt is slightly smaller than the bore it fits it. If the starter moves at all, and isn't perfectly aligned and centered it can affect how the gears mesh when you start the car. Use replacement starter bolts. Don't use regular grade 8, or even the old ones.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 7,720
Likes: 12
From: Chattanooga TN
Originally Posted by Durango_boy
The reason is because the diameter of the shaft of the bolt is slightly smaller than the bore it fits it. If the starter moves at all, and isn't perfectly aligned and centered it can affect how the gears mesh when you start the car. Use replacement starter bolts. Don't use regular grade 8, or even the old ones.
with most of what he said. Use real GM knurled starter bolts or you WILL have grinding issues. I have no problems with used ones however.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 24,125
Likes: 15
From: Columbia Missouri
Originally Posted by markdtn
with most of what he said. Use real GM knurled starter bolts or you WILL have grinding issues. I have no problems with used ones however.I was told with used bolts, that the knurl could be worn down from installation, and will allow tolerances.
No matter, most new starters come with new bolts.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 24,125
Likes: 15
From: Columbia Missouri
Something else to consider is length of each both. Some starters use different length bolts. Before you bolt it up, run the bolts in their bores, and make sure the knurl does not go past the mounting surface ind into the threaded bore. That will keep it from seating properly, and cause you mounting problems.
