Starter problem solved - new bolts!
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Race Director
Joined: Jun 2000
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From: FL
Starter problem solved - new bolts!
So, I have been using a Chevy 900852 (late model truck) starter on my 496 BBC. Been having some issues with starter engagement, then starter totally failed. Since mine was an Autozone unit (DLG 9990S) with lifetime warranty, I got a new one.
When I was bolting the starter on, I noticed that the bolts were getting alternately tight and loose as the went into the block. Further inspection determined that they were slightly bent were the threads are. Replacement with some other bolts that I hand on hand and the car starts right up with no starter grinding.
The bolts in question were the GM 12338064 which have metric shanks and standard threads with dual diameter knurled portion. I had some replacements that came with the starter that worked perfectly.
I attribute the bend to really bad kickback that I had on start ~5 years ago (before EFI) that actually broke the starter nose. Thought the bolts survived OK but was wrong.
Just thought I would pass this info on for others having starter issues. Bolts can be a cheap fix.
Bolt in question (note the dual diameter knurled area):
When I was bolting the starter on, I noticed that the bolts were getting alternately tight and loose as the went into the block. Further inspection determined that they were slightly bent were the threads are. Replacement with some other bolts that I hand on hand and the car starts right up with no starter grinding.
The bolts in question were the GM 12338064 which have metric shanks and standard threads with dual diameter knurled portion. I had some replacements that came with the starter that worked perfectly.
I attribute the bend to really bad kickback that I had on start ~5 years ago (before EFI) that actually broke the starter nose. Thought the bolts survived OK but was wrong.
Just thought I would pass this info on for others having starter issues. Bolts can be a cheap fix.
Bolt in question (note the dual diameter knurled area):
