Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise

Starting System

Pinpoint Tests

Pinpoint Test C: Unusual Starter Noise



PINPOINT TEST C: UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

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C1 CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING


- Inspect the starter mounting bolts and brackets for looseness, and the starter housing to confirm a flush, tight fit to the rear cover plate.
- Is the starter motor mounted correctly?

Yes
GO to C2.

No
INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

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C2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE


- Ignition OFF.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid B- and S-terminals.




- Engage the starter motor and verify that the noise is due to the starter operation.
- Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?

Yes
GO to C3.

No
REFER to Engine to continue the diagnosis.

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C3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR


- Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair.
- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.
- Is the noise due to ring gear tooth damage?

Yes
INSTALL a flexplate. REFER to Engine for 4.0L SOHC engines or Engine for 4.6L (3V) engines.
EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

No
INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor - 4.0L SOHC Service and Repair or Starter Motor - 4.6L (3V) Service and Repair. TEST the system for normal operation.

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