Shut off while driving, will not start

Tiny
BONS06
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 130,000 MILES
Truck shut off while driving 75 MPH, now starter spins but engine doesn't turn over. No running issues prior and no unusual engine noises.
Saturday, May 8th, 2021 AT 9:53 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Hi,

I need clarification on something. When you say the starter spins, do you mean it spins without turning the engine or it spins the engine but doesn't start?

If the starter is turning the engine, it could be a few things. First, take a look through this link. It identifies the most common causes of a crank no start condition.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Next, if the starter spins but doesn't turn the engine at all, chances are you need to replace the starter because the Bendix isn't engaging the starter/flywheel.

If that is the case, here is a link that shows in general how it's replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

If you look at the attachments below, they provide the directions specific to your vehicle for replacement.

Let me know what specifically is happening so I can better direct you. Also, if it is possible, record what is happening and upload it for me to hear. It may help.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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Saturday, May 8th, 2021 AT 10:17 PM
Tiny
BONS06
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The engine does not turn over, I can just hear the starter spinning. Is it still possible it's the starter if it happened while driving highway speeds? Someone mentioned the timing chain, but there was no noise from the motor or hard start problems previously.
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Sunday, May 9th, 2021 AT 6:15 AM
Tiny
BONS06
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my questions!
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Sunday, May 9th, 2021 AT 6:15 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Hi,

Okay, we must be talking of two different things. The starter shouldn't engage at highway speeds. Is that what is happening? Is it making a ground noise? If the engine is running and then you hear the starter trying to engage, we have a short at some point.

Your first post indicated the engine stalled at highway speed and now the starter just spins. Please record it with your phone and upload it for me to hear. It will certainly help me.

I will watch for your reply. Note: Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you watch the belts on the engine. Do they move? Does the cooling fan between the radiator and engine turn?

Let me know.

Joe
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Sunday, May 9th, 2021 AT 7:57 PM

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