I have an '88 with a 2.5L and automatic transmission. All signs are pointing to the bendix in my starter going bad. I've seen quite a bit here on replacing them on the V6, but little on the L4. One thing in particular was mention of the gear reduction starters. From some of the discussions, it kinda looked like the ones for the 6 will work on the 4.
I guess what I am looking for are recommendations in this area. Is there a gear reduction starter for my application, and if so what should I look for to get the right one? Also, any tips on the replacing portion of the repair?
I believe you can use a V6 starter, but others will have to chime in. As for changing it out. You may have to unbolt the exhaust from the manifold and lower the exhaust to get the starter out. I can't remember for sure, but the 4cyl cat. is pretty big.
The starters are the same....and you can replace them with the newer smaller starter if you like. Where I live there is still an independent auto electrical shop that rebuilds starters, and I found that fix to be the cheapest...( and best, I think).
Is there one you would recommend, if I were to go with the smaller, gear reduction, starter? I believe I read that one from a 98 Bonneville would work.
I got a starter for a 98 Grand whatever Pontiac had out at the time with a 3800 motor. Its been on my 84 Duke since spring and working great. Small than the oem starter and half the weight. So much easier to install.
When I pulled the starter I disconnected the battery, disconnected the wires on the starter, and removed the two bolts that hold the starer on. I slid the starter over to the pass. side of the car, and played around with the starter to get the angle I needed to slid it out. This was the hardest part of the job. The gear reduction starter is so much easier to work with if you ever have to pull it again. You will pat yourself on the back for doing this mod.
