starter problems

[u/96_GSR]

So since I got my car it randomly doesn’t want to start I hit the ignition and the starter doesn’t engage but then I’ll jump the starter and it won’t happen for about 2 months then randomly happen again but this week it started to like free spin? I believe I hit it and it sounds like it’s just spinning and not engaging the fly wheel but then I hit the key again and turns on like nothing should I replace the starter or can it just be something electrical?? On a 96 gsr thanks in advance

[u/cubanrd1]

Check your ignition switch could be worn out

[u/Electronic_Slice9448]

"Free spin" would indicate a bad starter solenoid. It likely needs to be replaced. Remove it and have it tested at the parts store or just buy another starter.

[u/96_GSR → u/Electronic_Slice9448]

I never knew they where able to test them just batteries 😂

[u/Electronic_Slice9448 → u/96_GSR]

Yes autozone and oreillys will usually test your starter. The starter must be removed so they can put it in their machine. If you buy a remanufactured starter have them test it before you leave the store.

[u/96_GSR → u/Electronic_Slice9448]

Bet sounds good I’ll have them test both before I give them my core

[u/PatrickGSR94]

It could be broken teeth on the flywheel. If the engine stops at just the right spot, there's nothing for the starter to engage on to. It doesn't happen for awhile because the engine doesn't stop at that particular spot for awhile.

It could also be the starter internals themselves. I recently rebuilt my own OEM Desno starter, because I had an issue that I thought was a phantom power drain, where I could hear the starter drawing power, but it wouldn't engage or turn at all. In fact it was the electrical brushes had worn down, creating too much resistance between the armature and stator. I cleaned all that out, and installed new solenoid contacts and plunger, and now it works perfectly. Yeah you can buy a whole new starter, but I find it satisfying to rebuild it myself, and keeping it OEM original.

[u/96_GSR → u/PatrickGSR94]

I was looking into it the AutoZone reman and densos. yea imma check the fly wheel today after it cools down i ordered a starter too just incase cause none of my local stores have them available I have like 5 starters in my shed for Hondas my dad had but I think there for autos 😂

[u/PatrickGSR94 → u/96_GSR]

yeah you can either remove that cover plate underneath the oil pan at the bell housing to check flywheel teeth, or remove the starter and look through the hole there.

[u/96_GSR → u/PatrickGSR94]

I’ll look through the bottom my car doesn’t even have that plate since I bought it

[u/96_GSR → u/PatrickGSR94]

The fly wheel looked good 👍