Loud Starter Noise Upon Starting

[boboh1]

Got the engine to finally want to start but once it started and I released the key very loud whining grinding noise coming from the engine. I assume it is the starter still being engaged. The directions state ‘if the starter makes a high pitched whine after cranking as the key is released then the pinion to ring gear engagement clearance is too small. When I replaced the starter with a Powermaster OEM type I put back in the original shim that was there. I guess more shim is required but not sure the thickness.

 

[BLK 68 R/T]

Sure it’s not torque converter bolts hitting?

 

[Charles Cook]

I would try no shim’s

 

[RJRENTON]

Got the engine to finally want to start but once it started and I released the key very loud whining grinding noise coming from the engine. I assume it is the starter still being engaged. The directions state ‘if the starter makes a high pitched whine after cranking as the key is released then the pinion to ring gear engagement clearance is too small. When I replaced the starter with a Powermaster OEM type I put back in the original shim that was there. I guess more shim is required but not sure the thickness.

WHAT WAS/IS THE THICKNESS of the original shim? I would ADD an shim of 1/2 the thickness of the origional. It sounds like the clearance is too tight. Perhaps the starter drive (aka "BENDIX") is not over running on engine start. Just my opinion of course....
BOB RENTON

 

[R413]

Starter shim, are we on GM's now?

 

[khryslerkid]

Try it without the shims!

And check to make sure the torque converter bolts are not hitting.

(Maybe if I repeat what was already posted he might try it)

 

[boboh1]

How do you tell if the torque converter bolts are hitting? And if they are what can I do to correct the issue?

 

[khryslerkid]

How do you tell if the torque converter bolts are hitting? And if they are what can I do to correct the issue?

You'll see scaring on the bolt heads and maybe some metal flakes in the bottom of the bell housing. Also the sheet metal plate that's used behind the starter can make contact with the flywheel if it's bent.

 

[boboh1]

Thanks. I’ll remove tomorrow and check it out to see.