Searched archives and didn't find a definitive answer so....
About a month ago my starter randomly wouldn't work after trying to start car. Paused for a moment and tried again and it worked fine...never thought about it again.
This Saturday while running late for an appointment I heard a loud buzzing noise after start up. I shut off the engine and buzz kept going figured out the starter was still "cranking" but no horrible teeth grinding....just motor buzzing away. I had to disconnect the battery to stop it. After a few minutes I connected battery and starter was fine. It is a Bosch part about 3 years old (replaced during engine rebuild). Original unit lasted over 20 years! Any tips of troubleshooting before spending $200 on a new one? I'm really dreading the removal of my intake system to do the rather simple job. Thanks in advance.
Sounds like the solenoid is sticking.
The solenoid throws the bendix (gear) into the flywheel which then turns the motor.
I would check your connections at the starter motor and battery. This is where the + (red) cable from the battery hooks to the engine.
Could just be a bad connection or corrosion.
I have heard that the starter motor can be changed with the rights tools without removing the manifold. I have not had to try it as i replaced mine at rebuild like you.
Thanks Gary! BTW, I read in the archives that a weak battery can cause these symptoms too but no one really confirmed it. What do you think? (battery is 3 years old too but was discharged at least 3 times because I didn't drive the car much)
A weak battery can cause it, and I have also had it happen on a car that hasn't been run for a long time. It could just be a bad unit. The rebuilds are sometimes just not great.
Ok guys thanks. I'll check the battery w/ meter and pull the starter. I think I'll go ahead and get a new Bosch one so I don't have to worry about it for another 20 years.
Thanks in advance.