flattire

I have replaced the starter on my G20 350V8.
The bolts have a knurled section on them. After a few starts the new starter begins to grind on the flywheel.
I am guessing the knurled section was there to stop the starter from moving sideways.
Can the bolts be reknurled to fit properly again?

canucklehead

Did you replace the shims? Did any shims stick to the old starter?

flattire

Hi canucklehead
The old starter didn't have shims, but it worked fine for a few years.
When it packed up I renewed it and measured for shims, the fit was perfect without any, just lucky I guess.
The new starter works fine for a couple of weeks, then it starts making noises.
The bolts have a knurled section on them. I didn't renew the bolts, I used the old ones.
My guess is that the knurls keep the starter straight and tight. Because I used the old bolts, I'm guessing the darn things are worn and are now loose, giving the starter room to twist a bit.
If I take the old bolts out and refit the starter it's OK for a short time.
I know new knurled bolts are available, but I was wondering if the old ones could be re knurled.

oldchevy

Try using some lock washers and/or loctite on the old bolts.

flattire

Thanks oldchevy I will probably try lock washers.
Have you had this problem?
because the starter bolts from the bottom upwards, it sometimes has to be shimmed to make proper contact with the ring gear.
If ordinary bolts are used the starter can move from left to right, it doesn't need much movement to lose the adjustment.
I don't know when Chev started using this system, I never came across it before.

canucklehead

You could try a flat star washer between the starter and block. That should stop it from moving around. Then lockwashers on the bolts.

flattire

Thats a good idea mate. Star washers should grip,
The bolts don't loosen any. its just the angle of the starter that changes. When the starter hits the ring gear it must push it away a small amount.
Star washers should dig into the block and into starter. that should keep it in position.
I will try that tomorrow.

JIMMYDRIVER1

glue the starter in place with a little RTV. I would get new bolts though.

solwav

My money is on shims not trying to be a wise guy but I have experienced shims used to locate starters but never special knurled bolts.
that being said as my wife will be quick to remind me I have be known to be wrong, anyway good luck.