Starter Rebuild Questions

[Randy B]

I have the original Magneti Marelli starter on my 84' X with some issues. The solenoid with broken by the PO, so I replaced it with a new one from Matt. I took it to AutoZone for testing (maybe that was a mistake). Anyway, the starter turned for about 5 seconds and died. I had nothing to loose so I disassemble the major components. All four brushes are frozen in place. They won't move in or out after applying heavy force. The contact end of the armature was also heavily coated with carbon. Is the starter a lost cause at this point? Is this a good excuse to look for one of the new high speed starters? Any advise is welcome.
Thanks,
Randy

[Rooster]

Originally Posted by Randy B

I have the original Magneti Marelli starter on my 84' X with some issues. The solenoid with broken by the PO, so I replaced it with a new one from Matt. I took it to AutoZone for testing (maybe that was a mistake). Anyway, the starter turned for about 5 seconds and died. I had nothing to loose so I disassemble the major components. All four brushes are frozen in place. They won't move in or out after applying heavy force. The contact end of the armature was also heavily coated with carbon. Is the starter a lost cause at this point? Is this a good excuse to look for one of the new high speed starters? Any advise is welcome.
Thanks,
Randy

If your set on keeping it, I'd bring it to an alternator and starter rebuild shop. They'll turn the armature and free up the brushes. I have a local guy in Merrimack that I bring stuff to occasionally. It's not cheap, but your recycling instead of tossing it away.

[jvandyke]

Mine was in a similar state. Freed up the brushes, cleaned everything up. Good to go. (had to do the solenoid too a while later)

[Randy B]

Jeff,
Thanks for the link to your starter rebuild thread. I had searched, but missed that one. Now if I can find a way to un-stick my brushes. Did you have a trick to free up your brushes?
Randy

[jvandyke]

I don't really remember. Drift 'em out with something, small socket extension and a little tapping? I think I filed them slightly but basically it just tons of carbon and grit that needed to go. Starters and new solenoids are pretty cheap though, not sure I'd do it all again for the $55 or so for new starter WITH a new solenoid. You should probably renew that too while you're at it. The server I used to house my pictures disappeared but if you want them I'll find them back.

[davevoss]

Hi Randy,

Most auto parts stores carry spray cleaner for electrical components (the CRC brand works well), pick up a can and generously spray the brushes, holders, and springs, and let it sit overnight. Then, gently tap the brushes out and renew if necessary. Make sure the springs are providing tension, if not the brushes may be worn too short.

[MikeHynes]

But be careful, they are easy to damage. File the sides down so they slide easily in their holders and you're good to go. Make sure that you don't overheat it again by cranking on it too long or you'll have it back apart to do it over again.