When attempting to start the vehicle there is a metal-to-metal grinding sound?

1997 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
287,764 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
FRAZIER88
  • MEMBER
  • 43 POSTS
Listen when I try to start it, what is happening? Horrible sounds like metal-to-metal grinding against each other in a bad way.

New (used) motor, new starter, brand new torque converter, had the transmission rebuilt, new power steering pump, now this...
Jan 23, 2024 at 9:27 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,855 POSTS
Yep, the starter motor is no good, can I ask where you are getting the starter from? I would use an AC Delco unit. Thanks for the video.

Here is how to change the starter out:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Jan 23, 2024 at 11:29 AM
Avatar
FRAZIER88
  • MEMBER
  • 43 POSTS
Starter is brand new not rebuilt straight from O'Reilly's auto parts. Which is who also gave me the wrong one to begin with.
Jan 23, 2024 at 5:09 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,855 POSTS
The starter does not sound good. I would try another one.
Jan 24, 2024 at 10:05 AM
Avatar
FRAZIER88
  • MEMBER
  • 43 POSTS
Okay, did that, same thing, but check this out; if I disconnect the distributor, it cranks fine no problem. Soon as I plug in the distributor it goes back to that same sound.
Jan 30, 2024 at 10:06 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,855 POSTS
I would double check the firing order, here is a diagram to help you. Also, it could be the distributor cap or rotor, I would replace them if they show signs of wear. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Jan 31, 2024 at 8:58 AM