1997 240SX AT: New Starter grinds, MAP/Baro Code thrown

[aquaman]

I just recently replaced my starter and shortly after I cranked it. The first crank seemed a little draggy, which is the reason that I replaced it in the first place. However, my CEL light came on. After pulling the code I found that it was a MAP/Baro circuit malfunction.

So I read up on this in my FSM, and it seems that the MAP/Baro sensor is just used by the ecu for condition checking or something. So I just decide to put it off for the week because it didn't seem too terribly problematic. Unfortunately over the course of last week I noticed that ever so often when I started the car I would get the grindy metal on metal noise.

So I did some searching on Nico and found that this noise was probably the sound of the Solinoid on the starter not extending properly and grinding against the flywheel. That sounds like a problem that I don't want to get any worse, so I jack the car up last night then I proceeded to check all my grounds, check all the bolts to make sure they are tight, and finally make sure all the connections are secure (including the ignition relay).

I cleared my code and lo and behold it stayed clear and no grinding noise (however I only started it once). This morning I started my car with a little lag on the start, no prob I though, its cold. Well I get to work no problems finally when its time to leave this afternoon theres the grinding sound (In all cases it only lasts a second and the car starts up) and the CEL pops on again.

So today on my way home I went and ordered a new Ignition Relay in the hopes that it will fix the problem. I wanted to know if there was anything else to look out for or that I might be missing. If the Relay doesn't fix the problem, the battery is next (its close to 6 yrs old, Optima red top), and if that doen't work I buy a new MAP/BARO sensor. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Oh yeah I don't think it would have any bearing on my problem, but when I replaced the starter I disconnected the battery, and I also replaced the valve cover gasket. I don't think that would have anything to do with it but ya never know. Terribly sorry for the long post I just wanted to describe the situation fully.

Thank a bunch.

-W

[aquaman]

Anybody?

[aquaman]

At all?

[aquaman]

OK I feel like a dumba$$, I found the problem with the map sensor, one of the plugs was loose. That is what was causing my MAP to throw a code. However, I still get the intermitant grinding on the starter. Anyone got any suggestions or Ideas

[aquaman]

Ok, I bought a new battery today, and so far that seems to have taken care of the problem, So Far. Well thats hopefully that, I hope if anyone is having similar problem that this thread is helpful.

So just as a recap:

1. Check grounds and plugs2. Check relays.3. Check battery4. If all of that comes out clear THEN change the starter.

WOOT!