I tried the search function, but couldn't match anything up with this problem.

I got my car about a week ago. It's a 91 Trans Am with 305 (engine code F). When trying to start, it will sometimes spin the starter with no engagement. It alternates between spinning and just hearing the solenoid click, and then it will turn over and crank with no problem at all. One time it will crank on the 2nd turn of the ignition, then the next it will take as many as 12 or 13.

I've been told to replace the starter, but it sounds to me more like a shimming problem. Should I try to get the shims right, or is the starter in need of replacement? Is operating the car like this going to cause any damage to the engine due the starter spinning without engaging? Can that strip something?

Thanks!

 

Mine did it when I first bought it. I cleaned the battery terminals and all was well, for a while. Now it's starting to do it again.

You may want to check the battery also. Even though it has enough power to turn the starter, our cars are very picky.

After you've done those two things try this. It will help a lot even though yours may do it when it's not hot.

https://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/tech/solenoid.shtml

 

It doesn't sound like a shimming problem, but more like a lack of electrical power or a mis-behaving solenoid. A shimming problem usually manifests itself as a milling sound, where the partially engaged starter teeth begin to chew away at the flywheel teeth, sending metal chips all over the place.

Clean all terminals and battery cables to make sure that you have no excessive resistance between the battery and the starter & solenoid. A weak battery could also be a possible culprit. While you're in there poking at the wiring, check the alternator cables to make sure they are tight and clean. Poor connections there could be allowing the battery to die a slow death. If this doesn't fix it, the solenoid may be on it's way out.

 

Thanks for the help! I'll be climbing under it tomorrow to check it out. While I'm under there, I'll also be jacking up the rear end to replace the tranny mount (it has that big clunk when given too much gas).

I'll let you guys know what it takes to fix it.

 

I had a similar problem not too long ago with my car but it would only do it on really cold mornings. I replaced the starter myself and it has worked fine ever since but the problem was the solenoid, I know it for sure.

 

It's not shimming. If it had a problem where it grinds when it turns, it could be shims. But that's not what you've got.

Sounds to me like you need a starter.

The trans mount is closer to the front of the car than the rear. You should probably do it and the starter at the same time.

 

But don't go running to the parts store with a $100 in your hand until AFTER you've done the other things first (short of the relay setup).

 

I checked all the wiring. No corrosion, good grounds. I even discoe'd the battery to check under the rubber covers for any hidden corrosion; there was non. Alternator connections are clean and tight.

I'm running over to get a starter now, and will replace and see what I get. Wish me luck!

 

Replcing the starter fixed the problem. After taking off the old starter, I saw no evidence of metal flakes of chips, and the portion of the flyweek I could see looked fine. I think everything else is fine, it was simply time for a new starter.

Thanks for all your help! I'm certain I'll be getting a lot more help from everyone in here!