When attempting to start the vehicle there is a metal-to-metal grinding sound?

FRAZIER88

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
5.7L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
287,764 MILES

Listen when I try to start it, what is happening? Horrible sounds like metal-to-metal grinding against each other in a bad way.

New (used) motor, new starter, brand new torque converter, had the transmission rebuilt, new power steering pump, now this.

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5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,940 POSTS

Yep, the starter motor is no good, can I ask where you are getting the starter from? I would use an AC Delco unit. Thanks for the video.

Here is how to change the starter out:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

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Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 AT 11:29 AM

FRAZIER88

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29 POSTS

Starter is brand new not rebuilt straight from O'Reilly's auto parts. Which is who also gave me the wrong one to begin with.

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Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024 AT 5:09 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
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The starter does not sound good. I would try another one.

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Wednesday, January 24th, 2024 AT 10:05 AM

FRAZIER88

MEMBER
29 POSTS

Okay, did that, same thing, but check this out; if I disconnect the distributor, it cranks fine no problem. Soon as I plug in the distributor it goes back to that same sound.

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Tuesday, January 30th, 2024 AT 10:06 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,940 POSTS

I would double check the firing order, here is a diagram to help you. Also, it could be the distributor cap or rotor, I would replace them if they show signs of wear. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

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