possible starter problem

[Dr Shuffles]

Sometimes when I turn the ignition switch, it doesn't crank, just makes a sort of whining noise. It always starts on the second attempt. Is this a sign that the starter solenoid is going bad?

[paul somlo]

The whining noise may be the pinion gear in the starter turning, but failing to engage the flywheel. Although, it seems that the pinion gear should kick out before the motor being energized.

[Dr Shuffles]

But either way, I'd have to replace the starter, right?

[paul somlo]

Yes, as the solenoid is part of the starter. I don't know if you could rebuild it or not. The two most common failures for a starter are either worn brushes or worn contacts.

[bazar01]

Have fun replacing the starter. I have a lift and still struggled getting to those 2 starter bolts.

[paul somlo]

I replaced mine once, did it from the bottom using jackstands. I remember it as being challenging. You can also do it from the top by removing the intake manifold.

[Dr Shuffles]

Yeah, I'm not looking forward to replacing the starter. So I want to make absolutely sure that it's really the starter.

This is what I was talking about (not my car): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJbjhTjzBGs . Mine isn't nearly as bad. It starts on the first attempt about 90% of the time. But when it doesn't, it sounds just like this. Are there any other things that could be causing this? Weak battery, maybe?

[paul somlo]

Easy enough to swap a battery from another vehicle, or maybe some jumper cables. Battery voltage should be about 12.6 when not running or cranking.