Xflow starter problems

[locost7018]

OK guys, I am pleading for help. The starter has gone out on the 7 AGAIN!!! This will be the 6th one. I have maybe started the car 30 times since the starter was rebuilt. The motor is a newly build Ford Xflow 1600cc 771M block (Fiesta) with a Ford type 3 4speed (British) transmission. What in the world is going on? The starter spins but does not engage the flywheel. This is exactly what happened in October when it left me high and dry in Wisconsin. This is driving me crazy. I am afraid to drive my car for fear of it leaving me stranded. Russ

[jlumba81]

Is the starter on the exhaust side? It may be a good idea to put some insulation on it like this product. You can always push start the car. I was lucky enough to have a couple guys help push start my 7 when I killed the battery a few years ago.

[TheDingo8MyBaby]

on a kent, the starter is not near the exhaust, so not likely heat related.

 

It would be helpful to know what starter you have fitted to help diagnose. The old Lucas units are unreliable, but the denso based super-starters are actually pretty reliable, so long as a rebuilder hasn't fitted rubbish parts during a rebuild.

[Dave W]

Russ

I would guess you could have several possible problems. The first thing I would check is the alignment of the starter. If drive is miss-aligned you will have adjust the engagment clearance. [Ck manual for tooth clearance spec, you may have to open up one of the starter mounting holes] 2nd if it's been a problem for a while, then it possible that the teeth on the flywheel are be on hope, and will have to be replaced the ring [press fit ring gear or new flywheel] 3rd verify amp draw at the starter or resistance of the power lead wire and connections. last clean the drive worm, and only lube with light wt oil, or lubriplate, do not use grease. Dave W