Pinpoint Test B: Unusual Starter Noise

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:

• Starter mounting
• Flexplate/ring gear
• Starter motor

PINPOINT TEST B: UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE 

1. B1 CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING 
   • Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts for looseness.
   • Is the starter motor mounted correctly? 
   1. YES  : Go to  B2.
   2. NO  : INSTALL the starter motor correctly. REFER to Starter Motor . TEST the system for normal operation.
2. B2 CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE 
   • Key in OFF position.
   Fig 1: Inspecting Starter Motor
   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
   • Connect a remote starter switch between the starter motor solenoid C197a, circuit 2037 (RD) and C197b, circuit 113 (YE/LB) terminals.
   • Engage the starter motor and verify the noise is due to the starter operation.
   • Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement? 
   1. YES  : Go to  B3.
   2. NO  : REFER to DIAGNOSTIC TESTS article to continue the diagnosis.
3. B3 CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR 
   • Remove the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor .
   • Inspect the flexplate ring gear for damaged or worn teeth.
   • Is the noise due to flexplate ring gear tooth damage? 
   1. YES  : INSTALL a new flexplate. REFER to IN-VEHICLE SERVICING article. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor . TEST the system for normal operation.
   2. NO  : INSTALL a new starter motor. REFER to Starter Motor . TEST the system for normal operation.