How to replace flexplate

Replacing the flexplate is a really big and messy job that involves pulling engine and then separating the transmission and torque converter. But lets not go there yet.

Before going that far let me ask you a few questions.
1. Does the starter make any grinding noises when you try to crank the engine. I mean really loud high pitched grinding noise?
2. Does the starter just spin and make a noise like you were turning on a hand drill?

Take a look at the link below.
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-starter-and-solenoid-works

Jon

Number 2.

When I took the starter off I could move the flex plate by hand.

Okay, number 2 indicates to me that the starter motor is working but the Bendix (the mechanism that forces the starter gear to pop out and engage with the flex plate) does not appear to be working. In that case it would appear that you need a new starter.
But since you mentioned this, could you take a video of you "moving the flex plate? Or at least describe it for me in detail? When you say you can move it by hand, do you mean that you can rotate it by hand with some effort? Or does it wiggle or turn as if its loose?

Jon

The starter is brand new only a week old.