1986 Oldsmobile 88 What's wrong???

1986 OLDSMOBILE 88

89,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

DOOLA_G

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I'd pulled off in my car the other morning. When I got around the corner I pressed on the gas but my car wouldn't pull any more. I pulled over, turned my car off, and it hasn't came back on since. I haven't had any problems with my transmission. If I turn my ignition to try to crank the car, the only thing I hear is my starter. The engine doesn't turn and neither does the belt.

Mar 31, 2010 at 1:43 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,246 POSTS

I'm confused. The starter cranks but the belt doesn't turn or the engine? Is the starter spinning really fast as if it isn't engaged with the engine?

Apr 14, 2010 at 5:41 AM

DOOLA_G

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yes, when I turn the ignition, the ONLY thing that I hear is the starter.

Apr 14, 2010 at 8:30 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,246 POSTS

If you hear the starter, but the crankshaft isn't turning the belt, then the starter isn't engaged with the flywheel or the teeth are off the flywheel. There is an inspection plate between the engine and transmission. Remove it to check the teeth on the flywheel. If they are good, remove the starter and have it bench tested at a parts store to see if the solenoid is kicking the gear out to engage with the flywheel.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Joe

Apr 14, 2010 at 3:20 PM

DOOLA_G