Starter scratching against flywheel

Hi,

As far as the starter noise, is it loud enough to record and upload for me to hear? Also, when you shimmed it, did you replace the starter, too.

Let me know. If you can record and upload the sound, it will be helpful.

Take care,

Joe

Yes, it's loud enough to hear. I'll record a video and send, and I tried to replace my starter but Orielly's auto parts said nothing was wrong with it.

Hi,

The starter may be okay, and something different is happening. I'm hoping if I hear it, I can recognize it.

I will watch for your video.

Take care.

Joe

This is when I turn it on and leave it on idle and after I put it in reverse, and it sounds normal.

Hi,

I don't think that's the starter. I do hear it. It sounds like a bearing in one of the belt-driven pullies. But that wouldn't go away when you place it in gear.

By chance, have you checked under the hood to confirm where it is approximately coming from?

Joe

I will check under the hood and I'll get under the truck to hear it better later today.

Sounds good. Let me know what you find. I'm interested in knowing.

Joe

I'm still not 100% sure where the noise is coming from but I'm still searching. I definitely hear it coming for the lower portion of the truck.

I listened to your video again. I'm still not convinced it is the starter. When listening to the video again, I noticed the sound stopped at a certain point. Does it always do that?

And don't laugh. Go to the auto parts store and purchase an automotive stethoscope. They are inexpensive. Under $10.00. Then (carefully so you don't short the starter) place it against the starter and see if that is where the sound is coming from.

I attached a pic below from Amazon so you can see what I'm talking about.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.

When I put in gear it goes away, and I will buy the stethoscope soon and try to figure it out.

If it goes away when placed in gear, it's likely coming from the transmission. It could be related to the converter, so pay attention for the sound near the bell housing.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

Okay, I couldn't wait, and I took a closer look and the flex plate (I think that's what it's called) is cracked and i think that's what's causing the noise. Let me know what you think.

Here's a video of the Flex plate and starter (which I see isn't the problem now) and you can see the cracks on the flex plate.

Hi,

Absolutely, if it is cracked and it appears it is, that's what you are hearing. Also, based on the video, it sounds loud in that area.

You will need to remove the transmission and torque converter to access the flex plate. I'm not sure if you have a 3-speed auto or 4-speed automatic transmission, so I attached the directions for replacing both below.

Additionally, pic 3 shows the torque specs for the things you will be working with.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.