Starter solinoid

[Jakem]

Everything installed on new build. Went to do the initial break in on ford 302 and my starter is now grinding and won't kick out. It gets stuck. The engine fired right away but because of the racket I stopped. Perhaps shim it out? When the engine was still hanging I spun it by hand with starter out and no noise

 

[alldodge]

Agree, starter is the issue. Check clearance and shimming is probably needed

 

[Jakem]

Here is what's going on..the wear is on the end...so if I shim it out that will give clearance?

 

[alldodge]

Use a screw drive or similar as a pry bar and move the starter gear out. There should be a good amount of tension trying to keep the gear where it is. So pry it out and it should snap back quick and strong. If it doesn't then might need a new spring.

Next bench test it a few times so it moves like it should. Check to see that the ignition key is not keeping power on the starter relay which powers the starter after the key is released.

If all checks out then the issue is the gear messing with the gear on the flywheel. Either wrong gear or it needs shimming because its going in to tight

 

[Jakem]

Had starter at an auto electric shop...he replaced the gear assembly..no grinding anymore...boat fired right up and finished initial breakin without a hitch...thanks for all you help