Starter and Bendix Drive

[Jim_Gruber]

Ok so the Bendix locked up on me for the 2nd time in < 2 weeks and I needed to get the wrench out, turn in the little knob, get my hands and jacket greasy, etc.

1) Other than replacing with the starter off of my spare 1275 or replacing with Japanese Car starter is there and easy way to do a repair and keep Bugsy from accidentally stranding me temporarily. Over the last 8 years, Bugsy has done this to me maybe 7-8 times and I'm tired of it.

2) Could this in any way be related to low battery voltage? Negative terminal seems to be corroding up quickly on my 8 y.o. battery. I think that's a sign that a plate may be going yet the battery reads 13 volts at rest with no load. It's time for a new battery for sure but present work situation or lack therof will put that expense on hold for a little longer.

In spite of the issue in getting going, Bugsy loved getting out and running errands this PM. Beautiful day in Dayton with temps crossing the 70 degree level and rain has held off until after I got out of class at 4:00. Bummer being stuck in school with fabulous Spridget weather outside.

So someone give me a good solution on cleaning up the Bendix Drive so it works properly.

 

[Billm]

It has everything to do with low voltage! Sounds like your battery is fine, just needs the connections cleaned very thoroughly and you are probably good for another year or so.
Bill

 

[Sarastro]

Very likely so, and easy to check: just clean up the connections.

In the worst case, starters aren't that expensive. A lot cheaper than medication for the frustration!

 

[spritenut]

A little dry lube (graphite) on the bendix gear works wonders.
I have oiled them up in the past with no ill side effects too but oil can attract dirt and grit and clutch dust.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Frank,

Is it applied to the end of the shaft that sticks out or does the starter need to be disassembled. I'm thinking a little brake cleaner to degrease and then dry graphite as a lube?

 

[jlaird]

On the shaft.

 

[Roger]

Don't use wet lubricant on the Bendix (oil or grease) but a little dry may help.
Another tip - check the shaft is straight. Take out the starter and spin it to find out. In my poverty-stricken youth I have used a hide mallet and emery to straighten one. The starter bearings need to be in reasonable shape too.

 

[recordsj]

if you need to buy a new/rebuilt one as opposed to paying over $100 from MOSS or VB check out RockAuto.com, you can pick one up for just over $50 which is a pretty good savings which I have purchased other parts for my MG and other cars. Across the board I have come across parts cheaper than buying from Autozone, Napa, etc....

 

[jlaird]

I bought one from Autozone after I told them I wanted it for a 64 Duster I think it was. 49 bucks.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Jack,

What kind of starter, OEM Type Lucas or Japanese type? were you able to get for $50.

 

[jlaird]

The same starter was used on our LBCs and the 64 duster. In fact mine is a rebuilt and was orginaly on an early 50s MG. It is Lucus.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Thanks Jack!!!!

 

[Gearhead]

you sure a 64 Duster uses same starter as a Midget 64 Dodge Duster what engine thats a new one never heard that b4 Thanks Mark

 

[scoutll]

Maybe a 64 dart? Dusters were not made until the 70's.

 

[Gearhead]

Thats what I thought (waiting for answer)

 

[Trevor Jessie]

1971 Plymouth Cricket (same as a Hillman Avenger I think).

 

[jlaird]

yep dart, so sorry. Check the item before departing store but that should be correct.

 

[Gearhead]

Ok lets get this settled a 64 or 71 Dart or a Plymouth Cricket? how did a Lucas starter make it onto one of these cars?

 

[Trevor Jessie]

i said plymouth cricket because it is was a british import that chrysler sold since they didnt have a small car of their own ready for the market

 

[Gearhead]

Thanks I knew it had a British connection somewhere in it