2001 Chevrolet Impala Repair Question
Asked on September 3, 2008
Chevy starter grinds intermittently when engine
Engine Mechanical problem
2001 Chevy Impala 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 120000 miles
Intermittently, the starter grinds when the engine starts. It doesn't happen all the time ... and many times, it starts fine without any grinding noise at all. It does seem to be happening more frequently over time however. What is causing the problem? Why is it intermittent? How do I fix the problem permanently? Can the fix be done by a "weekend mechanic" with good mechanical skills and a modestly stocked tool box? Any special tools needed? If battery is disonnected to replace starter (if needed), will the power disconnect cause any car computer programming loses that will require reprogramming? Or, must the repair be done by a professional mechanic or car dealer shop?
2001 Chevy Impala 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 120000 miles
Intermittently, the starter grinds when the engine starts. It doesn't happen all the time ... and many times, it starts fine without any grinding noise at all. It does seem to be happening more frequently over time however. What is causing the problem? Why is it intermittent? How do I fix the problem permanently? Can the fix be done by a "weekend mechanic" with good mechanical skills and a modestly stocked tool box? Any special tools needed? If battery is disonnected to replace starter (if needed), will the power disconnect cause any car computer programming loses that will require reprogramming? Or, must the repair be done by a professional mechanic or car dealer shop?
Asked by thusseyAnswer
Replied on September 3, 2008
Starter grinds when cranking-the starter pinion drive is too far from the flexplate. Grinds after engine starts its too close. You need shims to adjust it. You don't have to disconnect the battery to shim the starter.
Replied on September 3, 2008
Thanks for responding so quickly. Are there any instructions available on how to diagnose and correctly shim the starter to fix grinding problems?
Replied on September 3, 2008
Its a trial and error basis using different sizes of shims-