starter disassembly question (somewhat urgent)

monkeymissile · Post by **monkeymissile** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 1:34 pm

Hi Gents,
I am trying to tear down my starter to clean the commutator and install new brushes. I don't have my manuals with me so I can't tell if the motor housing should just slide off once the (6) bolts are removed or if the (4) screws at the brush locations need to be removed first. I can't get those screws loose right now, but can get the housing to move a wee bit now that the bolts are out. I wanted to check before I applied more force and possibly damaged something. Thanks!

cuz · Post by **cuz** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 2:52 pm

Once you pull the commutator head screws all you need to do is tap that end of the housing at the side with a hammer and the end cap should slide right out. Go slowly so the brushes don't slam together. The armature and the main housing stay together until the switch.lever and pinion housing are removed from the other end which you don't need to do just to service the brushes.

monkeymissile · Post by **monkeymissile** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 5:31 pm

Thanks!
so I want to pull the end cap off, not the end with the pinion gear? Any advice for removing the commutator head screws?

cuz · Post by **cuz** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 6:26 pm

If you are telling me you have been unable to loosen the six screws then try two things.

1-With the starter in a vise use a stout screwdriver upon which you can get a good grip. One with a square shaft or those with the small hex at the top of the shaft are best. Then you can use a wrench on the shaft while maintaining plenty of pressure to keep the screw driver from climbing out of the screw head. Now try to tighten the screw slightly first then try the other way.

2-If the above fails get a hand impact driver and follow it's directions.

monkeymissile · Post by **monkeymissile** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 6:27 pm

will do, thanks!