Inspection Before Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Nissan Titan XD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Inspect the flexplate ring gear teeth for damage.
- If the flexplate ring gear is damaged, make sure to evaluate the following possible causes prior to replacing the flexplate.
Mechanical
- A mechanical issue can typically be identified by observation of damage to the ring gear of the flexplate:
- Upon inspection of the flexplate (1), make sure to check for proper starting motor (2) spacing.
- Interference between the flexplate ring gear land area and the starting motor pinion.
- There can be a problem with the starting motor pinion. Inspect the pinion for nicks and burrs. Replace the starting motor (if necessary). Refer to Removal and Installation - For CUMMINS 5.0L .
- The torque converter/transmission is damaged/incorrectly mounted.
Electrical
- An electrical issue can typically be identified by seeing damage to the flexplate ring gear of the flywheel 360 degrees around the circumference of the flexplate ring gear (commonly called 360 degree milling). The following could be causes for electrical issues:
- Operator is attempting to start engine while engine is already running.
- Keyswitch causing intermittent starting motor engagement when the engine is running. Inspect the keyswitch.
- Intermittent starting motor wiring issues.