1978 Jeep CJ7 STARTER/FLYWHEEL FAILURES

WME

MEMBER
1978 JEEP CJ7
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
12,000 MILES

The engine was overhauled at 80,000mi with a new starter assembly. At 120,000 the starter/flywheel failed with the starter solenoid chipping several [4-5] teeth from the flywheel. A new set [starter/flywheel] was installed. In less than 900mi the same type of failure. Thrust bearing clearance is within tolerance. Please advise possible cause and solution. THANK YOU: WME

1 Reply

CJ MEDEVAC

MECHANIC
11,004 POSTS

Only solutions I might offer is : Can Mr. Ring be improperly installed (reversed) both times? Or is that possible. Or starter is not proper application. Compare several different part store starters. Had similar problem with 1976 Ford F-150 truck. Binding on flywheel and/ or tearing off bolt ears on starter when cranking, leaving starter dangling by solinoid wire. Got new one from other source. Seems that starter drive gear was either wrong app. Or was machined larger than correct specs. Love Turddog