Catchpole

Every now and then I go to turn my car on, and instead of turning over all I hear is my exhaust make a "zzzzzzzzzzzzzz" sound. I let off the ignition and turn it again and the car fires right up.

Anyone know what this might be?

rossstang8808

i have that exact same problem on my 90lx and i think i have the exact same noise except i think it seems to come from the starter itself. i hear it spinning like u said nut when i turn the key back i hear a small THUD, and as soon as i hit the key again it cranks right up. i would really like to know about this too, but i think its something in the starter.

Ford Drag Team

Sounds like the Bendix is going out of your starter if the gear is just spinning and not engaging with the flywheel.
This will get progressively worse, so I'd buy a new one or rebuild the one you have.