Had a hell of a crunch from the starter on Friday and found that the bottom bolt was missing and the starter was loose as hell.
Got a new bolt in there now and re-tightened the top one, she's solid now, but the grinding is still there.
Started her up a few times: 3 times good, 2 times grinding, 2 good, 2 grinding. - all started the car.
On the last try I kept the key in start position and the starter got through 2 grinding episodes, turned normally for a second or 2 and she started up ok.

My question - Is it possible the flywheel was damaged when I lost the starter bottom bolt or is it that the starter is trashed?

Any advice much appreciated.

Rob

Thats what it sounds like. That can't be good in Cambodia, what's it like finding parts?

Most likely only the starter. The bendix is usually made of a softer material than the flywheel, so it'll give. It is possible that the flywheel teeth will be damaged after extended use of a broken-toothed starter...

Thanks Hazy, that's what I was hoping to hear.

MudRaider: Can get parts here, but getting good parts is another ball game...

It'll be at least a week before I can get to fix this, and the car's my only daily drive - no real alternative. Here's hoping I don't mess things up using it.

Can you park on hills so you can bump start it?

Nope. Phnom Penh is mostly flat, and I park the car inside the house at night. Flat at work too.
I read somewhere there's an easy-to-reach shield underneath the car that when removed will allow me to see part of the flywheel - I'll be taking an assessment look on Wednesday.

The only way to get the flywheel to move is to turn over the engine, right? If I disconnect the battery and plugs, can I turn the engine over with a wrench or bar from someplace at the front end there?

You can turn it via the crank bolt without taking anything else loose. And there is an inspection plate on it...

Ahh, thanks again H. You're full of good news today <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Stupid question time...Standing at the front of the car, do I turn clockwise or anticlockwise?

Which side of the equator are you on?















<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> Counter clockwise, IIRC.

EDIT: Now I'm second guessing myself. Better wait for a second opinion...

Look at the fan. Turn the motor in the direction that pulls air to the rear...

Clockwise, IIRC...