98 PA Starter Woes

[Donald T. Wingate]

My old starter shattered today and I had to purchase one from auto parts supply house. Local Dealership parts closed on weekends.

When I installed the new starter it makes a loud clunk noise. I took the starter off and shimmed. Tried all combinations from 3 to 2 to 1 to none on shims. Same sound on all combos.

Really sounds like the starter pinion is not engaging the Ring Gear and is hitting it. I have not had much experience with GM adjustable starters. But I would think you would just bolt it on. Check clearance and then shim to adjust for sticking of pinion and ring gear, etc.

I took the starter off and tested it. Starter turns over great. Engine is easily turned over by hand. Any suggestions or help is appreciated.

Thanks
Donald Wingate

[BNaylor]

Welcome to AF.

What brand was the starter and which auto parts store? Unless your original had shims I would remove the shims. And try another starter.