Pinpoint Test 2: Unusual Starter Noise

PINPOINT TEST 2: UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE

PINPOINT TEST 2		UNUSUAL STARTER NOISE
STEP	INSPECTION		ACTION
1	CHECK THE STARTER MOUNTING Inspect the starter motor mounting bolts and brackets for looseness. Is the starter motor mounted correctly?	Yes	Go to next step.
1		No	INSTALL the starter motor correctly. See STARTER MOTOR -- 2.3L or STARTER MOTOR -- 3.0L (4V) . TEST the system for normal operation.
2	CHECK FOR ENGINE NOISE Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. Connect a fused jumper wire from the B-terminal to the S-terminal of the starter motor. Engage the starter motor and verify that the noise is due to the starter operation. Is the noise due to the starter motor engagement?	Yes	Go to next step.
2		No	See ENGINE NOISE to continue the diagnosis.
3	CHECK FOR UNUSUAL WEAR Remove the starter motor. See STARTER MOTOR -- 2.3L or STARTER MOTOR -- 3.0L (4V) . Inspect the ring gear for damaged or worn teeth. Is the noise due to flywheel ring gear tooth damage?	Yes	INSTALL a new flywheel ring gear. EXAMINE the starter pinion teeth. If damaged, INSTALL a new starter motor. See STARTER MOTOR -- 2.3L or STARTER MOTOR -- 3.0L (4V) . TEST the system for normal operation.
3		No	INSTALL a new starter motor. See STARTER MOTOR -- 2.3L or STARTER MOTOR -- 3.0L (4V) . TEST the system for normal operation.