horrible grinding noise when i try to start up. - Third Generation F-Body Message Boards

platniumaura · 07-19-2009, 02:48 AM

iv got a tpi 350 on a 700r auto, when i try to start my car it makes a horrible grinding noise and the car will not crank, i looked under the car and it seems the fly wheel is turning but wont start.

i suspect the starter is bad but im not much of a mechanic, and i want to be sure that this is the problem before i start trying to fix it. any help would be great. if you need more info please ask.

F-body-fan · 07-19-2009, 07:10 AM

Can you have someone look under the hood while you crank to see if it spinning over? It sure sounds like a flywheel / starter issue though. Did it happen all of the sudden, or was it slow coming & sounding odd for a while?

pbtrilogy · 07-19-2009, 11:35 AM

i had this same problem a couple days ago.

have you checked to see if the starter mounting bolts are still tight?

fireturd350 · 07-19-2009, 12:28 PM

Yeah I would agree... I've found grinding before and the starter bolts had started to loosen even after just tightening less than a week before.

kkingsrulee · 07-19-2009, 03:37 PM

It sounds like you either have some broken teeth on the flywheel/ring gear, or the teeth are too worn to engage.

jaysperfly · 07-20-2009, 12:17 AM

mine used to do this sometimes and one day it didnt start at all so after towing it and replacing the starter and ignition system it hasnt made the grinding sound yet. pretty embarassing after school to make that sound lol.