65 K1000 305E Starter 'clunk'

[squighound]

Hi,

I had to replace the original started because it disintegrated... and then unfortunately while it was sitting on my bench it got thrown away (/sigh). So I bought this one from a GM dealer (WAI 4038N): https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...=6680672&jsn=3

That's when this issue started happening - when I installed the new starter. Thus began all the troubleshooting. In trying to figure out what's causing the issues I have:
- bought a SECOND new starter (same make/model)
- ran a new 4ga ground wire from the negative battery terminal directly to the starter mounting bolt
- removed all paint/grease/etc from the starter and the mounting surface on the bell housing.
- replaced the ignition switch
- connectivity tested all wires from ignition switch to the starter
- bench-tested starter with two different batteries
- in-car tested starter with a remote switch
- in-car tested starter with two different batteries
- had the main battery tested at a shop

I also just recently replaced the oil, oil filter, air filter and sparkplugs. Drained the gas and replaced with fresh. We got the truck over the winter, so that stuff was just the usual "give it a once-over" kind of stuff.

Sometimes it will start 8x in a row, then "fail". Other times it will fail 2-3x in a row, then start. Doesn't seem to be a specific pattern to it.

Thanks for all the help, guys.

Originally Posted by Jim A

Nice vid!
It almost seems like the first try bumps into a tooth but aligns the mesh just enough for the second try to fit.
Sometimes the first alignment is OK.
Maybe it doesn't hit a tooth, but doesn't move far enough to make the internal electrical contact which would boost the gear into meshing.
I can't remember what changes you made that preceded this unfortunate situation, but I admire your tenacity and am sure clear skies are just ahead.

I am not sure how much I should risk jinxing my Jimmy and me, but I don't remember replacing or rebuilding my starter in 52 years.

[AZKen]

Even though several sites say that is the correct starter, I have been suspicious of that part number from your first post. Suspicious that the vendors-for the vendors have got the wrong part number on that starter. I noticed that on Ebay and other sites selling that part number, that the application is way up in the 1990's. For BB V8's. That is highly, highly unusual. It makes me think that being "new" that they are using a pinion gear or solenoid or something for the 90's era flywheel or ???
Also see starters for 60's GMC straight 6 cylinder. Could be a mix up just about anywhere in the logistics. Just getting that off my chest.

[lizziemeister'sV6]

Working on BB V6's over the past 40 years - mine and other peoples - I know you can use a starter from a 1965 - early 1970's BBC V6 but you need to replace the nose with the one from the V6 your working on - I have both BBC and GMC V6's and know that was common to use the guts from the BBC for the V6. Yes - you are very correct on parts vendors - you tell them you have a 305 V6 and they think you don't know **** - their response is "305's are SBC".

[AZKen]

1970's BBC V6????????????? don't know of any of those?

[Prowbar]

Originally Posted by AZKen

1970's BBC V6????????????? don't know of any of those?

He meant to say V8

[squighound]

Originally Posted by AZKen

Even though several sites say that is the correct starter, I have been suspicious of that part number from your first post. Suspicious that the vendors-for the vendors have got the wrong part number on that starter. I noticed that on Ebay and other sites selling that part number, that the application is way up in the 1990's. For BB V8's. That is highly, highly unusual. It makes me think that being "new" that they are using a pinion gear or solenoid or something for the 90's era flywheel or ???
Also see starters for 60's GMC straight 6 cylinder. Could be a mix up just about anywhere in the logistics. Just getting that off my chest.

Yeah… I’ve been thinking the same thing. Bolts up nicely, but maybe it’s just slightly not right? There’s a Remy listed online as well, so I may just throw good money after bad and try that one…. I’ve said this before but “it’s the only thing that makes sense”….

[AZKen]

Almost 4 years ago I was in on this post https://6066gmcclub.com/showthread.php?t=50522

[James]

This is what I would do:
1. Removed the starter.
2. Clean the Bendix and shaft with Mineral Spirits. Then blow dry with compress air.
3. Lubricate the Bendix and shaft with silicon spray. Spray everything (Bendix and shaft) and let is soak into the Bendix. You can move the Bendix by hand to help the internal get lubricated. Let the excess run off. Do not wipe off.
4. Reinstall the starter and the problem should be gone.

Note: They make two different kind of silicon sprays. One type is running, this is what you need. The other is very thick and will not run off, do not use.

This was taught to me 60 years ago. Hope this is helpful.

[Jim A]

"but you need to replace the nose with the one from the V6 your working on"

"had to replace the original started because it disintegrated... and then unfortunately while it was sitting on my bench it got thrown away (/sigh)."

Those from above, Murphy's Law at work.

There is a DC electric shop nearby that has a huge pile of dead starters and generators.
Maybe a place like that could supply you with the "nose."