1987 Chevy S10 PU 2.8L V6 122,500M (85,000 M on rebuilt engine):
Starts on the first try if the truck has set, but if I need to stop for a few minutes it sounded like the starter is hitting the flywheel. I took the starter off to be checked electrically. It checked out okay. I re-installed the starter with same shims as before, then went from 1 - 6 shims and the problem is still there. I'm now checking the alignment of the flywheel and the starter. Flywheel seems to kick the starter out of alignment??? If everything checks out, I think I'll try a new starter, unless you have other ideas.
I am a former car/truck mechanic, Marine Corps Vet, 66 years old and doing the work myself.
Thanks in advance as do not have finances to take to a shop and do NOT trust mechanics around here.
Jack N.


(This post was edited by jn43nhs49s on Nov 6, 2009, 5:33 PM)

Quote

What does that mean? Does it mean you only trust the ones that will work for free like here.
We don't like hearing crap like that.




78 Corvette Pace Car For Sale-18k mi orig-Florida

NO! We have taken it to many mechanics in this area and we always seem to have new problems when we get it back! Bought the S10 from a Chevy dealership here and had to replace the engine after returning almost daily/weekly to have it "Fixed" under the warranty. I had the brakes done on the S-10 and returned it 3 times before it was right. I had a Dodge Van in 4 different shops and 2 Dodge dealerships and it never was fixed. Sold the Van, and 6 months later the guy that bought it found someone to fix it. I spent over $800 to have the S-10 and a Mazda PU tuned up and I'm still having problems, so excuse me if I have some bad feeling for mechanics around here!!!!
Jack N.

My experience has shown me that when one customer seems to have a problem with every shop and every mechanic,........ guess what, it's not the mechanics.

When someone comes in here asking mechanics for help while badmouthing mechanics, they usually don't see much help.




78 Corvette Pace Car For Sale-18k mi orig-Florida

Jack; If this is an automatic trans, it is possible that the flex-plate is cracked. They will crack right around the bolt holes where bolted to the crankshaft. Sometimes, impossible to see without pulling the trans. Manual or auto, carefully inspect the teeth the whole diameter of the flex-plate/flywheel. Could be wrong, but three is the most shims that should be used. Any more will move the starter too far away and will take the tips of the teeth off. Of course, too few shims can damage the teeth, also. I just re-read your post. If this only occurs after the engine is warm, try disconnecting the coil wire and try cranking it.
Loren
SW WA

Thank you Loren. We were just looking for advice on what to try now. Got a new starter and engine cranked over great! Now just have to get everything put back together with new parts. If there are more problems, will go to your suggestion next. Sorry we made Hammertime mad. We really appreciate the help!
Jack & Sheri N.

Jack and Sheri; Thanks so much for the reply. No, you didn't make HT mad. In our business, or career, most people think that we are 'grease monkeys' and rip-offs. Auto repair has become very technical over the past 15 years. Fortunately, it has weeded out a lot of those grease monkey types. Unfortunately, there seem to be some still left. It requires a lot of training, huge tool and equipment expenses to keep up with the ever changing industry. Just like a Dentist or Doctor, it is hard to find a tech (mechanic) that you can know and trust. Sure wish I would have become a doctor. The human body is the same now as it was 1000 years ago. Automobiles change constantly. Sigh. So, it is pretty much a norm for one of us to get our 'feathers' ruffled when it may be insinuated that we are all crooks. LOL. All of us here do this for free. Just because we enjoy trying to help folks.
Have a great weekend, and again, thanks for the reply. We're here if you need anything.
Loren
SW WA

Comment: Are there corrupt shops out there - YES! Personally I'm convinced it's not exclusive to auto repair - it happens in any trade or biz and they usually fail fast if true. It's possible that a shop is not trained well enough or a rough boss (had one) would insist on rushing work to make more $ - I quit that post haste.

I find it best to discuss any repair directly with the tech who is doing the work! It can do wonders to know the name of the person working for you. I swear 99% of folks want you do be happy with what they did for you and when you are pleased let them know.

Shops need customers and people need shops for auto help.

Not many over the years but some customers will never be happy and as a sole proprietorship I've fired customers who were unruly!

T
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Tom Greenleaf - MetroWest, Boston