C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

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Old Jan 26, 2025 | 11:29 AM
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Default C4 Starter Sound

This is a personal preference / rabbit hole type inquiry. I wouldn't say I have "issues" with starting, although my definition of an extended start has drastically changed from reading these boards ....I really just don't care for the sound! To me...it is too high pitched and too fast?? Again, maybe i'm chasing something that isn't worth it.

‘89 Vert.

Starter -> DEL336-1054 that was installed by the previous owner.
  • Cold Soak (Oil & Coolant - "Lo") 40* out, it'll crank in 6 seconds or so...sputter for a second and then catch.
  • Engine warm and going for a restart. It can fire immediately or take 2-3 seconds, max.

Last edited by ramahon; Jan 26, 2025 at 11:25 PM.
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Old Jan 26, 2025 | 11:38 AM
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Sounds like you're describing typical 'denso cranking motor experience. The install was done how many miles ago? Does it need attention? Maybe!
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Old Jan 26, 2025 | 02:19 PM
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Originally Posted by WVZR-1
Sounds like you're describing typical 'denso cranking motor experience. The install was done how many miles ago? Does it need attention? Maybe!
5 years - 6K miles ago.

From reading other forums & watching videos, can’t say or performs out of the norm. Just not my preferred sound. If I’m off base - let me know!
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Old Jan 26, 2025 | 02:23 PM
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Originally Posted by ramahon
5 years - 6K miles ago.

From reading other forums & watching videos, can’t say or performs out of the norm. Just not my preferred sound. If I’m off base - let me know!
Is it properly installed, correctly shimmed and hardware torqued appropriately? There's much to confirm, Cable condition and grounds? You could maybe consider a 'voltage draw' test? Talking about it and watching videos ain't maybe where you should be! Action is better alternative?
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Old Jan 26, 2025 | 04:47 PM
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Originally Posted by WVZR-1
Is it properly installed, correctly shimmed and hardware torqued appropriately? There's much to confirm, Cable condition and grounds? You could maybe consider a 'voltage draw' test? Talking about it and watching videos ain't maybe where you should be! Action is better alternative?
I guess i'm confused here. Are you saying that my starting behaviors aren't normal? Is the described sound not normal? If not, I will certainly take your comments and validate to the suggested. However, you mentioned "typical denso cranking experience". If this IS to be expected, is there another recommended starter that suits my desires?
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Old Jan 26, 2025 | 07:14 PM
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Originally Posted by ramahon
I guess i'm confused here. Are you saying that my starting behaviors aren't normal? Is the described sound not normal? If not, I will certainly take your comments and validate to the suggested. However, you mentioned "typical denso cranking experience". If this IS to be expected, is there another recommended starter that suits my desires?
Get a couple 'local' professional opinions maybe? You didn't mention year but part # hints '88 - '91 so there's that to consider. The 'denso is considered by most to be ideal. I wouldn't consider changing the style.
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Old Jan 27, 2025 | 12:48 PM
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Originally Posted by WVZR-1
Get a couple 'local' professional opinions maybe? You didn't mention year but part # hints '88 - '91 so there's that to consider. The 'denso is considered by most to be ideal. I wouldn't consider changing the style.
Appreciate the responses! I'll validate that all is seated and torqued properly and go from there. Maybe i'll pick up a working or non-working OEM and rebuild it.
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Old Jan 27, 2025 | 01:07 PM
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Originally Posted by ramahon
Appreciate the responses! I'll validate that all is seated and torqued properly and go from there. Maybe i'll pick up a working or non-working OEM and rebuild it.
Consider checking the wiring along with install.

Considering a DIY rebuild? Reasonable for sure. You want to confirm on the starter that the 'denso label 'Made in Japan' is present. There are a few 'denso OE numbers you might want to look for on the label . DENSO: 128000-4950, 128000-4951, should be the earlier.
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