starter question

[quickbrick]

every so often my starter will just spin several times before i can get it to start. it happens when the car has been sitting for a while. i guess the starter wheel isnt coming out. is there some thing i can do to remedy this. or will i need a new starter soon.
thanks

 

[WARP SIX]

Might just need a new solenoid, which is about $10-$15.

Pull the starter and pull off the solenoid. Grab the plunger that is now dangling from the starter and see i the drive gear moves in and out freely. If so, then the solenoid is the likely culprit.

 

[bose]

starter

In the old days they were called a Bendix.I believe the correct term today is over running clutch assembly.It is the part in your starter that the yoke pushes out.It is not hard to change,but if your starter has a lot of use it would be a good idea to change the brushes while you are at it.In my area starters for this type of car commonly go on sale for 29.99 with a one time replacement.Bruce

 

[WARP SIX]

I always called the drive gear a "bendix" too, but I've found that most people aren't familiar with that name and wonder if you're talking about brake parts.

What I suggested he look at is the solenoid. There's only three fasteners holding it on to the starter. It's easy to pull it off and tug on the plunger to see if the *bendix* moves in and out freely.

But I agree, if he goes so far as to take the starter motor apart to look at the bendix, it'd be wise to take a look at the brushes while he's in there.

 

[Roger]

$39.99 at Discount Auto Parts with lifetime warranty.
I considered one of the gear drive lightweight starters, but at the time I needed one the cost was over $200 & not available until monday - also they had at best a 90 day warranty.