I have a 76 GMC 454- turbo 400, and the engine has been nothing but a nightmare for starter problems. Shortly after I bought the truck 8 years ago, I replaced the flexplate, and installed a new starter. Over the years, I have put 5 starters in this truck for various failures. The other day when I went to start the truck, it kicked back, and from that time, the starter would wind, but it is making a grinding sound as if it is not engaging.
When I install the starters, it requires 2 thick spacers so that it will engage and disengage properly. It had been working perfectly, until the engine kicked back. I have owned big block cars continuously since 1970, and this is the first time I have had a problem like this. This is the fifth starter in eight years for this truck.
To prove they can work right, I also have a 67 396-350HP in my 55 Cameo, and have never had to do a starter repair in the 39 years since I swapped the engine into the truck.
I am using the proper bolts, and I have always had the front starter bracket installed. This starter is a rebuild with less than 6 months use. It doesn't turn the motor at all. I have manually turned the
motor so that the flex plate is in a different position, but there is no change in the symptoms. According to the local auto-electric shop, no GM starter should require more than two thick spacers.
Any ideas would be appreciated.
Bob
1
