99 GT wont start

[mjtr21]

Ok car started fine this morning when i left for work. I come outside 2 hours later to leave and it wont start. I turn the key to run and can hear the fuel pump humming (which was just replaced couple months ago), and there is no security light so its not Passlock problem. Battery and Alternator were also replaced within last year. I can hear the starter motor working also but when I tried starting a couple of times it sounded like it was grinding. Could that be my problem, a bad starter? The car is a 99 GT with 3.4

[3100]

use a broom stick or something and hit starter several times see what happens. From what you described sounds like the starter gear is not completely engaging the flywheel.

[mjtr21]

yeah cause the first time i tried starting, i turned the key to start and the only noises made were the fuel pump priming and the starter spinning. i tried again and the starter started grinding. it almost starts then it just keeps spinning the starter. ill try that screwdriver/broomstick trick when i get to the car after.

[3100]

if broom stick method works then it is almost time to replace starter, if not check for damaged teeth on the flywheel.

[mjtr21]

yeah i got the car towed home and tried hitting with a large screwdriver. i hit about everywhere i could with decent force. tried and it almost wants to catch. i even tried hitting it while my brother turned the key and it almost catches then just makes a grinding noise. off i go to get another starter...

ps. how do i get to the second mounting bolt. the first one is easily accessible but the other one is covered by this black thing and theres hardly any clearance to get anything on the bolt.

[mjtr21]

well finally got up to advance auto and tested the starter. it spun alright and moved in and out but it kinda got stuck when moving back in. so i said get me a new one and just got done putting it in. car started no problem thanks for your help 3100.

[3100]

no problem, good job.

[JamesEricAndrew]

Originally Posted by mjtr21

ps. how do i get to the second mounting bolt. the first one is easily accessible but the other one is covered by this black thing and theres hardly any clearance to get anything on the bolt.

That black thing is just the splash guard mount, it should come off, there is one screw underneath near the oil pan and another directly underneath the starter facing toward the radiator. 10mm socket wrench should take care of them if I recall correctly.