Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise

Starting System

Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise

Normal Operation

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

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

- Starter motor mounting

- Starter motor engagement

- Flexplate ring gear

PINPOINT TEST C : UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

C1 CHECK THE STARTER MOTOR MOUNTING

- Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts for looseness.

Is the starter motor mounted correctly?

Yes
GO to C2.

No
REINSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor .

C2 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 C3.

No
To continue the diagnosis, REFER to Engine.

C3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR

- Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor .

- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.

Is the noise due to ring gear tooth damage?

Yes
INSTALL a new flexplate. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. TEST the system for normal operation.

No
INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor . TEST the system for normal operation.