More Than Starter Promblems?
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More Than Starter Promblems?
I have a problem that may be more expensive than I thought. My '98 Expy 5.4L V8 has had starter problems. Once in a while (one a month or so) my motor screeches at me when I turn the key. On the second or third try the motor turns over. I had the starter replaced but the problem persisted. Now I'm told it may be the flex plate between the engine and transmission causing the starter squeel. Has anyone else had this problem and how hard would it be to do myself if this really is the problem? Thanks.
--Brian
--Brian
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Joined: Aug 2001
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From: MA
I had the same problem with my 5.4, but fortunately the vehicle was still under warranty. The first time I took it to the dealer they tried to weasel out by telling me they could not duplicate the noise, so I questioned if they looked at the starter or flex plate. Of course the answer was no. I made a big stink with the owner of the dealership and he agreed to provide me with a loaner vehicle. Upon further inspection, the dealer replaced the starter and flex plate and everything has been fine since then and I hope it continues that way.
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My friend who works in auto repair said he would help me put it in. We ordered the part at the local autoparts store for about $35. We are going up to the auto hobby shop at my base (Malmstrom AFB) where we can use a lift and any special tools I don't have at home. I'll let you know how it goes when we're done. This sure beats the $400 labor estimate I was given by a local shop.
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It is July 3rd and I finally have the new flexplate installed. I went to my friends family garage where his dad has been a mechanic for many years. First of all, I would not have been able to do this job on my own. They had to pull off a lot of stuff (exhaust pipes from manifold, crossmemebers, heat shield, drive train,transmission lines, etc...) to allow the transmission to move far enough to the rear to reach in and replace the flexplate. Sure enough about 8 of the teeth were worn down really bad on one side. This would explain why the bendix gear (correct spelling?) could not engage the wheel at that position. There is a small plate covering the bottom of the wheel that can be used to inspect the condition by turning the motor at the crankshaft up front without having to remove too much stuff. The process took about 7 hours total and I hope I never have to do this job again!
