Starter/Flywheel - Gear Clash or Milling While Cranking
Bulletin 86-6-26ADate
Jan. '87
Ref. No. 86-149A-6
SUBJECT: STARTER/FLYWHEEL GEAR CLASH OR "MILLING"
MODELS AFFECTED: ALL TRANSVERSE FRONT WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES WITH THE FOLLOWING
ENGINES: 3.0L V-6 (VIN CODES E & L) AND 3.8L V-6 (VIN CODES A, B, AND 3). THIS BULLETIN SUPERCEDES 86626
If a condition of gear clash or a grinding noise during engine cranking is received and verified, the vehicle starter and flywheel system should be checked and repaired, per the following steps:
1. Check for loose starter mounting bolts. If they are loose, inspect bolts and holes for any damage and replace as required. Continue with the following steps if looseness was severe, or if no bolts were found loose.
2. The flywheel should then be inspected the full 360 degrees, and the following actions taken, depending upon the inspection results:
- No Flywheel Damage: a. Inspect starter pinion for damage. If any, replace with new clutch assembly, Part No. 10498407, and
b. Clean and lube shaft underneath clutch assembly with silicone grease, GE Part Number CG 321. (Do Not Use Part Number 1960954 which is used on shaft underneath bushings.)
- Light Damage For 6 c. Clean and lube the starter shaft as in
Inches or More Step #2b above. Usually, this indicates
Continuously, and attempts to start the engine while it is
Only On Tooth Tips: running. If this is the case, the customer should be informed of the cause.
Also 2e may be needed, if other damage is apparent.
- Heavy Tip Damage As d. Replace the flywheel per Service Manual, Described above, or and,..
Localized Gouging On
The Sides Of The e. Replace the clutch assembly with Part
Teeth, Regardless Number 10498407, and...
Of Severity.
f. Clean and lube the starter shaft as in Step #2b.
All of the preceding steps also apply to rear-drive vehicles, with the exception of the clutch assembly part number which is 1875687.