Starter for 85

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Jan 9, 2008 | 01:21 PM

J H

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2002

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From: Durham NC

Starter for 85

I need to replace the starter on my 85 vette (I think?). Will purchasing a Duralast starter from Autozone be a bad purchase? Given the "hassle" of doing this job, I don't want to have to do it but one time in the very near future. Has anyone had any experience with the Autozone starters? I have an alternator from Autozone on the car and it has performed well.

Jan 9, 2008 | 01:24 PM

Demonic85

Team Owner

Joined: Feb 2006

Posts: 24,460

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From: sw Ohio

I recommend upgrading to the later style starter '88+ I think. Thats what I did on my '85 and its a direct bolt on. You will need a longer battery cable or an extension though. Starts much quicker and quieter. Oh and I got mine for $80 off eBay.

Jan 9, 2008 | 01:47 PM

yoslambo1@cs.com

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Joined: Sep 2001

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From: modland CT

I would not buy a cheap starter...Atleast get a GM one...I bought a mini high torque one for my Vette!

Jan 9, 2008 | 03:43 PM

Muffin

Race Director

Joined: Jun 1999

Posts: 14,924

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From: Merritt Ils Fl

Autozone, like any other rebuilt, is a crap shoot. May last for years , may not work at all. I agree with the mini starter comment. More expensive but sure eleminates a lot of problems.

Jan 9, 2008 | 05:03 PM

staugur

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Joined: Apr 2007

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From: port charlotte fl

Quote:

Originally Posted by yoslambo1@cs.com

I would not buy a cheap starter...Atleast get a GM one...I bought a mini high torque one for my Vette!

easier to fit
better built
half the weight.
car will be faster

Jan 9, 2008 | 05:04 PM

c4cruiser

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From: Lacey WA RVN 68-69

NCM Sinkhole Donor

Quote:

Originally Posted by Muffin

Autozone, like any other rebuilt, is a crap shoot. May last for years , may not work at all. I agree with the mini starter comment. More expensive but sure eleminates a lot of problems.

The chain autoparts stores like AutoZone, Shucks/Kragens and others usually sell the low-end remans. These typically have cheaper materials and workmanship and are probably rebuilt in China.

To me, it's like buying a pacemaker for your heart at Harbor Freight.

AC Delco would be a good brand as would Bosch. Going to the late model "mini" starter is a good idea but buy a brand new one. Gear reduction starters help with weight and they deliver as much if not more torque to start the engine. You may have to lengthen cables but the install will give you a lot more room especially if you have headers or want to install them later.

Jan 9, 2008 | 05:22 PM

J H

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2002

Posts: 218

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From: Durham NC

Thanks for all the replies. I agree that a "cheap" starter is not the way to go given the inconvenient task of removal/installation. Good advice!!!!

Jan 9, 2008 | 06:16 PM

80sRule

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Joined: Nov 2005

Posts: 4,590

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From: W MI

There are shops in most towns that sell parts to rebuild your starter. I rebuilt my Lincoln's starter about 2 years ago and it was $15 for parts and it is still going great. I put in new brushes and wire contacts. Everything else was still good.