92 240SX Starter problem

[alexh]

Hi,

I have a 240sx, automatic, and occasionally the starter will not activate at all. It hasn't happened to me so I don't know for sure if there is any click or noise at all but my wife tells me that there is no noise at all. Eventually it always starts after 20 min or so.

I assume it's very unlikely to be the ignition switch.

Is it a pretty safe bet just to replace the starter?

Hopefully it's not too hard to remove.

Thanks

[alexh]

Update - I was able to duplicate the problem by repeatedly starting the car until it failed to crank. I then measured the voltage at the solenoid terminal while the key is in the crank position (and of course engine was not cranking). Voltage read 10 volts.

So it must be the solenoid, right?

Should I just get a starter or is it possible to replace/repair the solenoid seperately?

Thanks

[Felipe]

zerothread?id=242714

[alexh]

Ok it's definitely the starter, when I tap the soleeniod it works.

Now the problem is removing the starter - I can get to the bottom bolt OK, but the top bolt is real pain. Just to be sure, the top bolt is in a recess in the transmission bellhousing, right?

I can't see any reasonable way to get a wrench, socket or combo, on that bolt. I have an auto. Any tips?

[Felipe]

ok if your using the ratchet your going to have to use long extension



it uses the same size socket as the other (bottom) bolt....

oh yeah and a universal joint!

[alexh]

Ok, Got it out by removing a few coolant hoses and using a long socket wrench from the top.

About a gallon of coolant spilled out on the ground - hope the neighbors don't report me!

[alexh]

Thanks drifters2it_sideways,

Didn't see your post. If you have a long handled socket wrench you can get it from top by removing the nearby coolant hoses.

I had a 91 Supra and to pull the trans I think I had to have about 4' of 1/2" extensions. Try holding up that much weight from the ratchet end and get it on a 17mm target that you can't see!

[Felipe]

[Felipe]

yeah that would do it also...