Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

Starting System

Pinpoint Tests

Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:
- Starter motor
- Ring gear



PINPOINT TEST B: UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

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B1 CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING


- Inspect the starter mounting bolts and brackets for looseness.
- Is the starter motor mounted correctly?

Yes
GO to B2.

No
INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair, Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 5.4L (4V) Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

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B2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE


- Ignition OFF.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid B and S terminals.




- Engage the starter motor and verify the noise is due to the starter operation.
- Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?

Yes
GO to B3.

No
REFER to Engine to continue diagnosis. Testing and Inspection

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B3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR


- Remove the starter motor.
- Inspect the flywheel/flexplate ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.
- Is the noise due to ring gear tooth damage?

Yes
INSTALL a new flywheel/flexplate ring gear.

EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair, Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 5.4L (4V) Service and Repair TEST the system for normal operation.

No
INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair, Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 5.4L (4V) Service and Repair TEST the system for normal operation.

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