Help with starter please

[goltz7500]

I just replaced my starter on my transport. It was a rebuilt starter. When I cranked up the van it made a loud screeching sound right when I started it. It was more of a loud whistle, like metal on metal. Hard to explain but it was'nt the same sound as when you try to start a car that's already running. Do you think the rebuilt starter I just installed is a faulty one or is it another problem. If you know where the starter is located on a transport van then you know why I am not looking forward to changing it out again.
Any input would be appreciated. Thanks

[jimarmijo]

sounds like a belt is sliping. did the sound stop after it was running a few seconds? If it started easy then I'm sure the starter is good.

[oldfrt47]

You need to shim one or both mounting bolts away from the flywheel. This is a common problem with GM starters. Many times the rebuilder will machine the mounting face of the starter which brings it closer to the flywheel. This alters the correct gear mesh relationship of the starter to flywheel resulting in a binding or loose contact. You can buy starter shims at most parts places or just use washers. Usually one 1 mm thick washer under the bolt closest to the flywheel will suffice. But you might have to try several different combinations to get the correct one. Hope this helps.

[dfinkw]

I had a similar experience. I beleive OldFart is correct. I loosened the bolts wiggled the starter around, and tightened it up. Some of the sound went away, but not all. I probably should have shimmed mine, but didn't. Since the wife drove it mostly, I didn't mind. That starter lasted another 5 years. The new one (replaced by a garage) hasn't made the noise for the last two years (which is good, 'cause I drive the van now).

The biggest risk is possible flywheel ring gear damage which could be very costly to fix. However, some of the rebuilds just "whine", so you may luck out.

Good luck.

[Slammerz]

Sounds like it needs to be shimmed, If you can't stand the thought of removing the boltabove the frame member again try just shimming the other one with a washer or shim, if you have to you can just loosen that back bolt and slide a shim in then tighten it back up.