1993 Sierra Starting Problem

[hwrd69]

My neighbor (80y.o.) has a 1993 Sierra that has a problem has been plaguing him for a while now. Occasionally (every 4-5 times) he tries to start his truck, it won't start. The truck turns on and he can hear a " whirrr-whirr-whirrr" sound as though the starter is starting but not engaging. Once he lets off, it will usually start. The local GMC dealer can find "nothing wrong" with it, and have looked at it several times. There are no codes associated with the problem. But it contunes to happen. Any ideas, or comments?

 

Thanks ahead of time

[GM-Tech]

Possibly a bad starter drive, but it's hard to tell from your description. A bad starter drive would cause the starter motor to spin at high revs, causing a noise somewhat like you describe, but the engine won't turn over hence it won't start.

 

It's hard to understand why the dealer can't hear this if it happens every 4 or 5 times you try to start it. Maybe that's an exaggeration?

[95Sierra2500]

I would definately say pull the starter and either replace it or have it rebuilt. I usually end up replacing now, unless it's my Firebird, in which case I almost always have to have it rebuilt.