I can't figure out my starter.

[rboiceiii]

im new to SE so i'll start with saying 'hi' to everyone. i really like the site so far. i have a '96 xlt 4x4 with a 4.0L V6. i did a basic rebuild on the motor in jan '10, it was my first rebuild but it has run great for the past year. all of a sudden the starter is making a grinding sound and after removal and inspection it looks like the the starter gear is not extending far enough to engage the fly-wheel. i bought a re-man starter and it is doing the same thing which makes me think it is in fact extending all the way but somehow isnt making contact. there are no shims except for shim plate between the bell housing and the block. i am at a complete loss. the only thing i can think of is that some how the fly-wheel has moved but i tried to move it when i removed the starter and it felt secure. any help is greatly appreciated!!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've moved your thread into the stock 95-01 section. It sounds like you have a bad flexplate.

 

[rboiceiii]

Thanks for the quick reply. By bad I'm assuming u mean cracked or warped... Will I have to drop the trans to replace it?

 

[BrooklynBay]

The teeth might be stripped. You have to remove the transmission.

 

[rboiceiii]

yep, theres ur problem

thanks for the info. it was the flexplate as u can see. i figured that since i got the tranny out i may as well rebuild it. i think i want to put in a shift kit too. any suggestion would be great. i'll probably post my progress as i go thru it. thanks again

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[BrooklynBay]

Thanks for the update! It sounded like it was the flexplate.