Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

B1 CHECK STARTER MOUNTING
- Inspect the starter mounting bolts and brackets for looseness, and the starter housing to confirm a flush, tight fit to rear cover plate.
- Is the starter motor mounted correctly?
- Yes : GO to B2.
- No : INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - 4.0L SOHC or STARTER MOTOR - 4.6L (2V) . TEST the system for normal operation.
B2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE
- Key in OFF position.
- Connect a remote starter switch between the starter solenoid B-and S-terminals.
  
  Fig 1: Connecting Remote Starter Switch
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Engage the starter motor and verify that the noise is due to the starter operation.
- Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?
- Yes : GO to B3.
- No : REFER to ENGINE SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION to continue the diagnosis.
B3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR
- Remove the starter motor. Refer to in this article.
- Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.
- Is the noise due to ring gear tooth damage?
- Yes : INSTALL a new ring gear. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. TEST the system for normal operation.
- No : INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to STARTER MOTOR - 4.0L SOHC or STARTER MOTOR - 4.6L (2V) . TEST the system for normal operation.