REVISED: GRINDING NOISE NEW STARTER DRIVE PART

VEHICLES AFFECTED: ALL TRANSVERSE FRONT WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES WITH: 3.OL V-6 (VIN CODES E AND L) AND 3.8L V-6 (VIN CODES A, B, AND 3) ENGINES'

NOTE: THIS BULLETIN RELEASED TO REFLECT NEW INFORMATION AND REPLACES BULLETINS 86-630-1-08, 86-638-107, AND 86-638-111 WHICH SHOULD BE DISCARDED.

If a condition of gear clash or a grinding noise during engine cranking is received and verified, the vehicle starter and flywheel system should be checked and repaired, per the following steps:

1. Check for loose starter mounting bolts. If they are loose, inspect bolts and holes for any damage and replace as required. Continue with the following steps if looseness was severe, or if no bolts were found loose.

2. The flywheel should then be inspected the full 360 degrees, and the following actions taken, depending upon the, inspection results:

- No Flywheel Damage a. Inspect starter pinion for damage. If any, replace with new clutch assembly, Part No. 10498407, and

b. Clean and lube shaft underneath assembly with silicone grease, GE Part Number CG 321, Dow Corning DC 33 (Med.), or equivalent. (Do not use part number 1960954 which is used on shaft underneath bushings.)

- Light Damage For 6 c. Clean and lube the starter shaft as in Step Inches or More 2b above. Usually this indicates attempts Continuously, and to start the engine while it is running. Only On Tooth Tips: If this is the case, the customer should be informed of the cause. Also 2e may be needed, if other damage is apparent.

- Heavy Tip Damage As d. Replace the flywheel per Service Manual, and,. Described above, or Localized Gouging e. Replace the clutch assembly with Part No. On The Sides Of The 10498407, and... Teeth, Regardless of Severity. f. Clean and lube the starter as in Step #2b.

All of the preceding steps also apply to rear-drive vehicles, with the exception of the clutch assembly part number which is 1875687.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.