Loud honking noise when starting

[ryanmshoey]

Okay, so I need some help with this as I have no clue. Whenever I start my 2004 3.0L Merc, it will randomly make this loud honking like noise. It's not quite a grinding noise, but rather like something is vibrating really fast, and it's pretty loud. It doesn't happen every time, but once it starts it doesn't stop until I let off the key. Sometimes it starts right away, sometimes not at all. The engine runs great so I assumed it had something to do with the starter. So, I took off the starter and tore it apart. Everything looks fine. The teeth on the starter and the flywheel both look fine and no evidence of metal shavings. I'm not sure how I can check the entire flywheel because it is too hard for me to turn. Any help is very much appreciated!

 

[85volvosunbirdman]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

My aq 125a does the same thing if the engine starts to fire and the starter gear drops down. It makes that noise till it stops spinning. Sounds like a goose...lol!

 

[ryanmshoey]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

Yeah, a goose is not too far off...only a very loud one. I had the starter apart and it didn't look like there was anything out of the ordinary, but I'm no mechanic. Do you think if I replaced the starter that would take care of it? It's just really annoying.

 

[85volvosunbirdman]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

I have no idea how to help you. I was just letting you know that mine does the same thing.

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

Yeah, a goose is not too far off...only a very loud one. I had the starter apart and it didn't look like there was anything out of the ordinary, but I'm no mechanic. Do you think if I replaced the starter that would take care of it? It's just really annoying.

Just throwing new parts at something is rarely a cost efficient solution. If you suspect the starter, take it to a rebuilder and have them check it out.

 

[jriegle04]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

sounds like the starter bendix isn't coming down as far as it should. spray a little WD-40 on it and see if it helps. just a bit on the shaft where the threads are should be enough.

 

[ryanmshoey]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

Well I ended up ordering a new starter from DB Electrical. Marina would have wanted about $400, I replaced it for $70. Basically when I took the old one apart, I took everything apart other than the spring/shaft assembly. That was the problem. It was worn to the point that it would vibrate from the speed as it disengaged. It didn't really hurt anything, but it was really annoying. The new starter is perfect and I don't have to worry about being stuck in the lake when the old one failed eventually. I'm sure some of you would say I could have just had it rebuilt, but for no more than it costs, DB had a good deal on the new one.

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Loud honking noise when starting

So does that mean that you need to buy a horn since your honker isn't honking any more?