Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Hi All,

Since getting the 34 Packard back from Wade's workshop it has been like driving a 'new' Packard I LOVE it!

Done over 800 miles since getting the car back. Though twice now I have had an issue with starting the car due to an issue with the starter motor. I've unbolted the starter & rewound the gear and put it back in and she started perfectly.

Unfortunately the problem has occurred again & I need to get something done, has anyone experienced this problem? and what should I do to fix the issue. Is it as simple as oiling it? or does it need to be rebuilt.

Many thanks,
Mathew

I know this starter motor very well, but don't understand your "rewound the gear". What are the symptoms when you had problems? The motor spun free but didn't engage the flywheel? The motor didn't spin at all? The motor engaged the flywheel but wouldn't turn the engine over? The motor wouldn't disengage from the flywheel after the engine started?

More info, please.

The motor didn't spin at all. When I pressed the starter I just heard a click noise,

the gear at the end I used my finger and turned it back & then when I put it back in it worked fine.

I'll see if i can find some images to explain it better

The first photo shows the starter when it wouldn't start then by moving the gear down as seen in the second photo the car starts fine

Thanks for your help,
Mathew

Attach file:

---

  (12.21 KB)


  (12.46 KB)

If it clicked but didn't spin, several possibilities.

(1) The solenoid contact plates are corroded. You can disassemble unit and just reverse the large brass or copper contact discs. Easy fix- like new.

(2) Perhaps more likely a dirty armature, worn brushes, or (worst case) a dead segment on the armature. The latter usually requires a new armature.

Remove the brush cover and check the condition of the armature. Try cleaning it and replace the brushes if needed. If that doesn't do it, remove the armature and check each segment of the commutator for a short to ground (the shaft).

Thanks for that, that'll give me something to do tomorrow
I'll let you know how I go with it


Many thanks,
Mathew

Looks like you also need to clean the armature screw at the drive end. Don't lubricate the overrunning clutch.

That starter was actually an old one which I had laying around (in the kitchen) The one I'm having problems with is still in the car

Quote:Mat,

I'd love to have a starter motor in the kitchen, trouble is my wife doesn't!

Mal said---I'd love to have a starter motor in the kitchen, trouble is my wife doesn't!

One of the perks of being single, Mal. My kitchen is also equipped with parts as Mat can attest. So too is the living room and several others.