Starter Drive And Flywheel Ring Gear Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda Tribute. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the starter motor. Refer to STARTER MOTOR - 2.0L ZETEC or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L DURATEC (4V) .

Fig 1: Removing Starter Motor
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Check the wear patterns on the starter drive gear and the flywheel ring gear. If the wear pattern is normal, install the starter motor. Refer to STARTER MOTOR - 2.0L ZETEC or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L DURATEC (4V) .

Fig 2: Checking Wear Patterns On Starter Drive Gear And Flywheel Ring Gear
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
If the starter drive gear and the flywheel ring gear are not fully meshing and both of the gears are scored or damaged, install a new starter motor. Refer to STARTER MOTOR - 2.0L ZETEC or STARTER MOTOR - 3.0L DURATEC (4V) .
If necessary, install a new flywheel. .