Grinding noise when starting-

[bahollis]

When I crank my '04 Tahoe it sometimes makes a grinding noise. It's the exact noise an older car would make if you tried to start it while it was already running. It only does it every once in a while, and it's for a split second. ONLY when starting up.

If I had audio of it I would post it up, but I'd have to start it up twenty times to hope to recreate it.

Anyone have this happen, or have an expert opinion what it might be? I know the starter won't grind once it's running, so why when it's cranking up?

Thanks in advance

BH

 

[metro273]

You might have a broken or cracked tooth on the flywheel?
There should be some sort of inspection plate or the starter should be removed, to gain access to the teeth of the flywheel. Someone should turn the crank pulley, while you inspect the teeth.

 

[tnezukon]

I have to agree with metro on this. Sounds like some teeth missing or broken.

 

[510Kon]

could be a sticking starter. pull the starterand have it checked at kragens or autozone for free.

 

[Davco]

could be a sticking starter. pull the starterand have it checked at kragens or autozone for free.

The problem with taking it in is that it will probably work fine since it starts fine the majority of the time. You'd have to get them to keep testing it over and over again for 30 minutes.

 

[oomindwarpoo]

My old camaro would do that same thing, only about once a month I go to try to start it and griiiiiiiiiiiiiiinddd. The starter eventually went, it was probably 4 months later..

 

[riverst]

Sounds like your Fly wheel. That's a $1000 fix at the dealer. Just had it done last year on my explorer. Good luck!

 

[Rivieraracing]

Sounds like what was mentioned before, a sticking starter because it happens on occasion. The silenoid (sp) sometimes gets weak and dirty and doesn't kick the gear out far enough to fully engage the flywheel to start the motor. Could still be the other but my guess is the starter!! Let us know what you come up with!!