2001 Chevy Impala Starter Grinds Intermittently When Engine

2001 CHEVROLET IMPALA
120,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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THUSSEY
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Intermittently, the starter grinds when the engine starts. It doesn't happen all the time ... and many times, it starts fine without any grinding noise at all. It does seem to be happening more frequently over time however. What is causing the problem? Why is it intermittent? How do I fix the problem permanently? Can the fix be done by a "weekend mechanic" with good mechanical skills and a modestly stocked tool box? Any special tools needed? If battery is disonnected to replace starter (if needed), will the power disconnect cause any car computer programming loses that will require reprogramming? Or, must the repair be done by a professional mechanic or car dealer shop?
Sep 3, 2008 at 3:21 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Starter grinds when cranking-the starter pinion drive is too far from the flexplate. Grinds after engine starts its too close. You need shims to adjust it. You don't have to disconnect the battery to shim the starter.
Sep 3, 2008 at 3:58 PM
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THUSSEY
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[quote:0e5ea5b26d="rasmataz"]Starter grinds when cranking-the starter pinion drive is too far from the flexplate. Grinds after engine starts its too close. You need shims to adjust it. You don't have to disconnect the battery to shim the starter.[/quote:0e5ea5b26d]

Thanks for responding so quickly. Are there any instructions available on how to diagnose and correctly shim the starter to fix grinding problems?
Sep 3, 2008 at 5:30 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Its a trial and error basis using different sizes of shims-
Sep 3, 2008 at 5:49 PM
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