ok i have a 98 gt auto. Monday the starter went bad. So i replaced it after fighting with the 3rd bolt for hours i finally got it out. I replaced it i olnly put 2 of the bolts back in(i talked to a couple other people said if i left it out there wouldnt be a problem). So i start the car it makes a clanking noise when i shut it down so i started it up again rev'ed it and it made the same noise i thought it was the drive hanging up so i put another starter in it the noise on shut down wasnt there but i still had the noise when i went through the power band. So i was like eff it i got my original starter rebuilt now the noise is worse makes the noise all through the powerband and when i shut it down. Do i need to put the third bolt in it? im beyond frustrated with the car really close to donating it to purple heart.
starter problems
- Thread starter 2fastnotch
- Start date
wmburns
SN Certified Technician
The top bolt is difficult to get to. My first time took what seems like hours. Now it only takes minutes. The trick for me is to use a 13mm "flex" socket and a very long extension. Put a small amount of tape on the flex socket so that it does not flop over.
Go through the K-member. The socket will have to be guided onto the bolt by feel. Best if you have a buddy that can turn the ratchet handle once you are on the bolt.
It is easier if the exhaust has been disconnected.
Seriously, once you can visualize where the bolt is and give up on trying to actually "touch" the bolt, it is very do-able. The "flex" socket does help IMO.
A long extension works better than several smaller ones end to end. Less flex. More control. Remember that the socket will have to be guided home by feel.
I know there are tons of guys that leave the top bolt out without any issues. Personally, I never have.
With regards to the noise, are you positive the starter is fully seated?
Good luck. That top starter bolt is a PIA.
Go through the K-member. The socket will have to be guided onto the bolt by feel. Best if you have a buddy that can turn the ratchet handle once you are on the bolt.
It is easier if the exhaust has been disconnected.
Seriously, once you can visualize where the bolt is and give up on trying to actually "touch" the bolt, it is very do-able. The "flex" socket does help IMO.
A long extension works better than several smaller ones end to end. Less flex. More control. Remember that the socket will have to be guided home by feel.
I know there are tons of guys that leave the top bolt out without any issues. Personally, I never have.
With regards to the noise, are you positive the starter is fully seated?
Good luck. That top starter bolt is a PIA.
1987stangman
Member
- Jul 12, 2006
- 684
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Does the noise sound anything like it does when you hear people try to start their car when it's already running? sounds like the starter is not dis-engaging.
I left that 3rd bolt out when I put my new engine in and I have not had any issues.
I left that 3rd bolt out when I put my new engine in and I have not had any issues.
1987stangman
Member
- Jul 12, 2006
- 684
- 24
- 19
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