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View Full Version : starter trying to weld self to oil pan

jode
03-10-2003, 03:53 PM
I have been hearing a "buzzing" sound coming from under the truck when I try to start it. Tonight (thanks to the dark) I found that the band that goes around the starter is arcing across the 1/4" gap over to the oil pan. There is even a little hole burnt into the ring where the current is jumping.
I can't figure this one out...what is going on...the jeep starts, but I think this may have something to do with the fact that I burnt my body ground wire out on Saturday. :rolleyes:
What is the solution?

In my understanding, the metal band that goes around the starter is what the (+) power runs through to the starter and then the ground is through the connection where the starter meets the engine block. Is this correct? Knowing how all this is supposed to work may help me figure out what I need to do to fix it.
THX
reddog
03-10-2003, 05:06 PM
I would go over all the grounds on the truck as a start. Make sure the starter is tight.

Kerry
Wesdog
03-11-2003, 12:19 AM
Remove the starter and carefuly inspect it. I don't think that band should have 12 volts on it but it's been a while since I disassembled a starter. Are the bellhousing to block bolts tight? The return from the starter is through starter housing to the bellhousing to the engine block to the battery negative cable to the battery negatine terminal. The battery negative cable should be bolted to the engine block, is it? There is a block to frame jumper across the drivers side motor mount, is that the one that was damaged? Wes
jode
03-11-2003, 02:26 PM
Problem solved!

I took the starter off, cleaned the mating surfaces with acetone, and reinstalled. It was a little loose in the top nut when I first looked at it, so maybe that was the problem.
I also installed another ground strap from the block to the frame. Now there is one under each motor mount. The problem is now gone, and she turns over real good.

Thanks for all the help!

Unfortunately, I am still having trouble getting it tuned up after the intake install...I can get it to run, but poorly....but that is another topic. :rolleyes: