strange noise. need help.

[tooslow]

I'm having an issue i can't pinpoint yet. This is on a 98 GT, all stock. When i start the engine about a second later there is a grinding/clunking noise. It sounds like metal to metal. Only for a split second right after i fire it up. Almost like the starter is hanging up and grinding, but not really as its more of a clunk than a grind. its a full second or so after the engine is running. Its only for a split second than the car runs and sounds perfect from there on out. I've only started it maybe 4 times though since the noise started. don't wanna hurt anything without knowing what the noise is.

Any idea of what it is or can be?

 

[vermilion]

remove your starter and check the gearing.

 

[tooslow]

i'm going to try that. don't suppose there will be an "easy" way to get it out? lol

 

[vermilion]

super long extension through the k-member on a lift. i forget what size bolts but it can be done.

 

[Jrgunn5150]

13mm, and you can hope someone did it before you and left the stupid third bolt out.

 

[vermilion]

might need some penetrating lube. nothing crazy. its a spark area. if you use penetrating oil disconnect battery. in fact disconnect anyway.

 

[tooslow]

thanks guys, i'll let you know how everything turns out when i get a chance to look at it.

 

[tooslow]

I was going to pull the starter this afternoon, but i drove the car around today running errands restarting the car multiple times and it didn't grind. Untill it starts again i'm just going to pretend it never happened. hahah.

 

[Willis_98GT]

I was going to pull the starter this afternoon, but i drove the car around today running errands restarting the car multiple times and it didn't grind. Untill it starts again i'm just going to pretend it never happened. hahah.

i love those situations, but still be aware.. maybe it'll pop up again, but lets hope not.

 

[Jrgunn5150]

I was going to pull the starter this afternoon, but i drove the car around today running errands restarting the car multiple times and it didn't grind. Untill it starts again i'm just going to pretend it never happened. hahah.

Yeah, whatever was grinding, probably ground off, lol, but good luck.

 

[MustangMatt96GT]

mine does it, and its just a sign of a going out starter... it clicks after everytime i fire it up. doen it ever sice the tranny shop had the car... i hate those guys now. they screwed me with myh other stang too. But its nothing to be worried about, my car has done it for over a year and half now no problem....

 

[Goldmember]

I've heard that clunk too but it sounds like it's coming from further back than the starter- like maybe the X-pipe hitting something (My X has no hanger where there should be one near the trans X-member)