Car wont start, single click noise heard when turning key.

[demoncamber]

Car wont start, single click noise heard when turning key.

Started happening about a week ago, sometimes it starts, sometimes it doesnt. Today it did it to me about 4x in a row.

Before I go an order a new starter, are there any specific fuses to check and replace or anything of that nature?

Bat volatge is fine.

[OldNuc]

Sounds like you need a new starter. That one is going to lave you walking real soon now.

[demoncamber]

Yeah, luckily I got it home safely, it took me about 15 tries before I could get it started. It's definitely on it's way out.

Hey OldNuc how's it going?

I don't know much about starters, so it's normal for them to just flake out like this? Sometimes it just starts up no problem and others, it just clicks and plays dead. But today was the first time it was consistent.

[demoncamber]

No chance of it being the Ignition Starter Switch or anything like that right?

Also, anyone know what's the latest SC2 year I can get for a starter for a 97 SC2 if I find one used?

I found a used 2002 sc2 starter motor for $26 and free shipping, as opposed to a new one for $120

[demoncamber]

Either way, I ended up ordering the used 2002 starter for $25, I double checked and the part numbers are the same from the DOHC/SOHC 97-02 models according to rockauto.com. Looks like I lucked out on this one.

[OldNuc]

The starter is one size fits all 91-02. I usually opt for the recycled starter also. You can buy a bucket full of used starters for 25 ea before you spend 125.00. The only other option would be a dirty battery cable but that also will turn off the power to the radio and make it go brain dead and you would notice that. A good solid click and no whir and 4X tries later it cranks is a bad starter. Dirty battery cables do not fix themselves.

Most of the aftermarket starters seem to have a short life. The used OEM starter will usually outlast the aftermarket Chinese copy or rebuilt unit. These people seem to be the exception though, http://www.db-starter-alternator.com/ No complaints yet that I have heard.

[demoncamber]

Cool man, you definitely made my night, that's exactly what I was hoping to hear. I figured a 2002 starter should be in great condition compared to a used 97ish starter. I'm glad I stumbled upon the used prices while searching online.

So far, since I've gotten the car about 2 years ago, everything that has gone bad or needed replacement, I have lucked out to be able to have done myself.

From Plugs/wires, EGR, CTS(?)sensor, Valve cover gasket, water pump, pads/rotors, radiator, thermostat, upper coolant hose , (I think that's it)

Thanks again.

[Chris0381]

Where did you get the used starter online from. We have to make a database of spare parts suppliers in case of an emergency. I'd hate to have to ride my bike 7 miles with 6 ft of snow banks lining the roads.

My issue with a cheap stater is that its a tough repair and quite dangerous if just using a jack stand outside and not actual good quality ramps. You need good clearance to get that rear bolt. You don't want to have to keep changing the starter.

Db electrical's starter is just $40 brand new. That sounds too good.

[demoncamber]

Justparts.com

[OldNuc]

The DB starter is Asian but you are counting on the DB quality control to not get a dog.

Use ramps when changing the starter and take off the right splash shields and you can see and remove the top bolt. Those bolts do not have to be tightened back eye bugging tight. The starter is located by the nose casting. The bolts only keep it from turning. Use antiseize on them and a good snug will do it. Disconnect the battery negative before removing wires from starter.

[demoncamber]

Cool deal, I already prepped myself with richpin's starter vid, I do my own oil usually so I know just where that is. I have ramps, hydro 2ton jack and two mounts, this will be a walk in the park

[demoncamber]

Well they just calculated shipping for me so it will come out to $39....So DBelec starter new would cost me $52.00

and the used 2002 starter would cost me $39

Should I just go for the new?

*update* Ended up going new with DB-starter for $52

OldNuc thanks for finding those.

[OldNuc]

It was another poster who discovered DB, I just made a bookmark...

[demoncamber]

Well... Put in the starter today after getting stranded at the gas station on the way to do the install!!! Had to get pushed and pop the clutch (thank god for manual)

THENNNNNNN it was REALLY hard to get to that top bolt, my extension was too long, managed to get it off but it took forever.

Rest of the disassembly went well. Got the new starter on, top bolt was a B@tch again, then finally went to get the last terminal connected, the 3rd smaller one, and low & behold the bolt was stripped!!!!!!! New bolt, stripped. Ugh

Off to the hardware store tomorrow to try and find a couple bolts, I give this one about a couple days till the stripped one spins off.

Car does start now though

[chingondearmona]

just a question, no need to replace my starter but is the started attached somehow to the flywheel to make it spin or is it attached to another type of gear?

[OldNuc]

The starter pinion is placed into engagement with the flywheel when you energize the solenoid. It pulls the pinion into engagement and then closes contacts to start the starter motor. When the engine starts the pinion is thrown out of engagement and then you let go of the key and a spring inside the solenoid positively retracts the pinion.