Pinpoint Test E: Unusual Starter Noise

Starting System

Pinpoint Test E: Unusual Starter Noise

Refer to Wiring Diagram Set 20, Starting System for schematic and connector information Electrical Diagrams.

Normal Operation

Correct starter operation relies on correct mounting of the starter to the engine, alignment of the starter ring gear to the flywheel or flexplate and correct functioning of the starter assembly (internal gears, bearings).

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

- Starter motor

- Starter motor mounting

- Starter motor engagement

- Flywheel or flexplate ring gear

PINPOINT TEST E : UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

E1 CHECK THE STARTER MOTOR MOUNTING

- Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts for looseness.

Is the starter motor mounted correctly?

Yes
GO to E2.

No
INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor Service and Repair.

E2 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 E3.

No
REFER to Engine to continue the diagnosis.

E3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR

- Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor. Service and Repair

- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.

Is the noise due to ring gear tooth damage?

Yes
INSTALL a new flexplate/flywheel ring gear. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

No
INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor Service and Repair.