Ok all, I need someone who really knows about cars - I need some help. I Mustang arrived today and I am relatively happy with it, although it does need some serious cosmetics. The engine and tranny seems good though, however, there is a problem. For some reason, the car will not start. When I tried to start it, there was a loud sound as if someone was trying to turn the ignition on again while the car is already running - you know, that kind of sound. It's a loud grinding noise. Well, that happens and I know it's not battery problems. I believe it is probably the starter because it sounds like the starter's gears are grinding against the flywheel's teeth. I don't know if the seller was being dishonest and didn't tell me that this has always happened, but it sounds like I may need another starter. Is there some reason why they are grinding? The car does run fine though - I had someone push it and I popped it while in first and let it run for awhile, and even got some gas, but I had to leave the car running. Any suggestions? With the current mods that it has (look below), I am wondering if it needs a high torque starter. Also, I noticed the car was leaking oil and am wondering if that is an expensive job. I am really wanting to hear some suggestions and other information. Thanks all for your help!

 

It sounds like somone didn't look this car over very well before buying it.

 

hmm, i THINK that sounds means its way out of time? someone with more knowledge could help you but it could also be the starter situation u said, try putting a shim on the starter. but i think its the timing.... i know the exact sound your talking about.

 

No..it's not timing...it's the starter. I would crawl under and make sure the starter bolts are tight and are both there.
What year mustang are we talking about anyway?
If it's a new starter, it's also possible someone bought the wrong starter for it.
Automatic and manual trannys had different starters. They are basically the same but one starter has a longer engaging shaft....I forget which one.
Start by checking the bolts though.

 

Sounds like the starter to me. If it was timing then why would the car still run normally once its started? Also I noticed you said you popped it in first to start it. I always was told its easier to do it in a lower gear like 3rd or 4th. Just wondering if there is a "correct way".

 

The mustang is an 89 coupe. Would I need a starter to match the kind of manual transmission I have? I have a Tremec TKO. I will check the bolts. I couldn't look this car over because I bought it from out of town - with all the engine work done, I felt I was getting a good deal.

 

Id take the starter off and inspect the fly wheel. it will prob need a starter and a fly wheel

 

Nope..if you get a new one just make sure it's gor a manual tranny.
BTW, you can get one of those mini high torque starters that they put on the '93-95 5.0 mustangs but you have to do some minor wiring changes.
I forget what you have to do but it's easy. I have one on my 351w
Also, pop starting in 2nd gear is the way to do it.

 

starter gear catching on the flywheel