Jadz928

When I start my car, sometimes (moreso than not) there is a grinding sound. It only happens for a split second after the engine fires up. I don't believe it is a driveline issue.
Is it possible that the starter is not completely retracting from the flywheel upon ignition?
Has anyone experienced anything similar? Ideas?

Thanks much!

Big Dave

Are you sure it's a grinding sound? If it's more like a tapping, it could be a sticky lifter/oil check valve. Mine taps for about a second the first time I start it. If I shut it off after running it a bit and restart it within a few minutes, it doesn't tap (because the oil is still where it's supposed to be).

Tony has a write-up of the fix:

http://members.rennlist.com/v1uhoh/oilcheck.htm

Jadz928

Dave,
I doesnt sound like a tap. Also, it happens sometimes when the car is warm. I will try to isolate the sound.

GlenL

Jim,

I'd guess that your hunch is right.

I haven't had this problem on my 928, but my old GM cars will do this. The return spring gets soft and the starter shaft gets dry or sticky.

Greg86andahalf

Get a mechanic's stethoscope (Autozone, Pep Boys, Sears, etc.) and it will be easy to pinpoint the source of the noise.
I use mine frequently and helped a 944 owner find his engine "rattle" today. Great tool to have.
Greg

Bernie

I am having that exact problem with my starter and it HAS been confirmed.

The sound I hear is like a "chatter". The motor gear doesn't pull right off the flywheel after ignition and makes the sound of a wheel of fortune (pun intended!)
It IS intermittent.
I bought a used starter from a fellow Rennlister and hopefully, that will be the end of it......

If that doesn't end up being your problem, I would consider checking into the oil check valves in your heads.......

Cheers
Bernie