Short Grinding Noise On Start Up - Starter Motor

[moog999]

Car is a 2003 2.3 Petrol.

 

 

On starting the car you get a short "grind" which sounds very much like the bendix isn't retracting quickly enough.

 

I managed to source a starter from a broken car and just spent 2hrs fitting it...jesus that undertray is a right PITA.

 

Anyway, went on fine. Went to start and all it did was pop fuse 26.

 

Tested the old motor and applying +12v to the solenoid (I think) sees the bendix pop in/out quick smart, no signs of if sticking at all.

 

So, the question is, what controls the timing of the bendix engagement/release? I seem to remember reading about a relay somewhere but can no longer find the link.

 

Any ideas?

[seatkid]

The bendix is designed to release when you stop supplying power, i.e. when you release the ignition key.

[moog999]

That's the thing, starts fine, immediately release key, then it

[moog999]

That's the thing, starts fine, immediately release key, then it grinds.

 

It's as if the bendix is sticking in the engaged position very briefly. When testing out of the car the bendix appears to be snapping in/out on application of 12v exactly as you'd expect.

 

Could the relay controlling the solenoid be sticking open, that's the question?

[moog999]

Another point... It isn't that big a deal really but I'm assuming there could be long term wear on whatever ring gear the starter is engaging in the box.

[viperclive]

Just had the relay/switch replaced in my 2.3 mk1, my car was in a garage having clutch done and my friendly mechanic (mate) informed me the thing was on way out, cost

[moog999]

Thanks Clive.

 

I'll bear that in mind.

 

The breaker I got the starter from are actually sending me another to try so I'm going to give that a whirl first; I reckon I can get the starter replaced within 30mins, so it's no big job if the replacement does the same thing.

[viperclive]

Good luck, I was about to buy my third starter to stop that horrible destructive noise of teeth being mashed up, don't trash the starters you may find it's that relay.

[moog999]

Fixed.

 

Replaced starter today with a second hand unit off eBay.

[moog999]

Just noted yours is a mk1 Clive, mines a mk2 hence no relay in this steering column.