Starter motor screech on r31 rb20

[Rolls]

The other day it rained heavily over night and in the morning, anyway when I started my car the next day (its left outside - nothing I can do about it) the starter motor noise was about twice as loud as normal and is more of a screech. It starts fine so I dont see it being a problem, but if its a sign its about to die or something it'd be great to know in advance.

[TimmyC]

mine also has a strange screech about it, does that mean its definately the starter motor ?

how much is a new one ??

[Rolls]

it kind of sounds like if you try and start the car while its already running, only not quiet as bad.

[The Dan]

Remove the starter motor.....2 x 14mm bolts on drivers side of car. Get the upper bolt from the top and jack up the car and get the lower bolt from underneath. Inspect the starter motor gear and slip clutch. Make sure it spins fairly freely. It will be firm but make sure you can actually turn it. Make sure there is all the teeth on the gear. With starter motor out you can also see the ring gear on the flywheel/flexplate and you should inspect tihs also. Make sure there are no missing teeth. Post pictures if you like or if you can.

[Rolls]

Remove the starter motor.....2 x 14mm bolts on drivers side of car. Get the upper bolt from the top and jack up the car and get the lower bolt from underneath. Inspect the starter motor gear and slip clutch. Make sure it spins fairly freely. It will be firm but make sure you can actually turn it. Make sure there is all the teeth on the gear. With starter motor out you can also see the ring gear on the flywheel/flexplate and you should inspect tihs also. Make sure there are no missing teeth. Post pictures if you like or if you can.

if say there are teeth missing is this an issue, does it mean its likely to get worse and not start properly? I'm one of those people who will wait till its broke to replace it

[Rolls]

It now makes a really loud clunk when it disengages and the engine starts

Think its time to replace it

[RT33]

last year my starter used to make the noise of when you try and start that car while its already on. was so anoying and rather embarasing when i started it around other people. i pulled it out and greased the shaft. has been working great for about 3/4 of a year now. i suggest you try it before byung a replacement.

[Rolls]

Yeah my mate said just pull it out, dismantle clean and grease everything.

Ill give it a go on my day off