Starter Motor Drive Gear and Flywheel Ring Gear Inspection

Remove the starter motor. For additional information, refer to STARTER MOTOR .
Check the wear patterns on the starter drive gear and the flexplate ring gear. If the wear pattern is normal, install the starter motor. For additional information, refer to STARTER MOTOR .

Fig 1: Locating Wear Patterns On Starter Drive Gear And Flexplate Ring Gear
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If the starter drive gear and the flexplate ring gear are not fully meshing and both of the gears are scored or damaged, install a new starter motor. For additional information, refer to STARTER MOTOR .
If necessary, install a new flexplate. For additional information, refer to ENGINE - 3.5L .

Fig 2: Locating Drive Gear And Flexplate Ring Gears In Damaged Condition
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.