Engine swap issues

1998 CHEVROLET 1500
134,000 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ABRATTON623
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I pulled a 5.7l from a 1997 k1500 that ran great and put it in my 1998 k1500. Everything lines up, but the issue I have is the starter is not engaging the flywheel and just clicks. It has a new battery and new starter in it. And the engine is now seized. Any clues?
Jun 9, 2020 at 4:51 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Good morning,

Do you mean the gear on the end of the starter is stuck on the flywheel?

Did you change the flywheel during the swap? Which flywheel is on the motor?

Roy
Jun 9, 2020 at 7:32 AM
Avatar
ABRATTON623
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I didn't change the flywheel and the gear isn't lining up with the starter gear to crank the engine.
Jun 9, 2020 at 8:38 AM
Avatar
ABRATTON623
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I have a typo in the main message, it is not seized. It moves freely.
Jun 9, 2020 at 8:40 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It sounds like you need to shim the starter to get it to engage the flywheel gear.

Were there any shims in the starter box when you got it?

Roy
Jun 9, 2020 at 8:48 AM
Avatar
ABRATTON623
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
No.
Jun 9, 2020 at 9:40 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You can go to a parts store and get the shims.

Is the starter from the donor engine? If it ran great in the other truck, you should not have any issues with it now.

Roy
Jun 9, 2020 at 10:31 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.