STARTER GRINDS/CLASHES NEW STARTER DRIVE & FLEXPLATE

Models 1985-88 PARISIENNE/SAFARI AND FIREBIRD AND Affected: 1985-87 GRAND PRIX WITH 4.3L V6 EFI (VIN CODE Z), 5.7L V8 (VIN CODE 8), 5.0L V8 TPI (VIN CODE F) OR 5.0L V8 4BBL (VIN CODE G OR H) ENGINES

"This bulletin supersedes bulletin 88-6-63, dated 7/88. This bulletin has been revised to add the flexplate information."

Some vehicles equipped with 4.3L, 5.0L or 5.7L engines and automatic transmission may experience a condition where the starter and flexplate occasionally do not mesh properly when attempting to start the vehicle. This results in a grinding or clashing sound similar to the noise which would occur if someone were to mistakenly attempt to start a vehicle while the engine was already running. This condition may be addressed by the installation of a new starter drive assembly, P/N 10456422 which features a stiffer jump spring to promote engagement.

When replacing the starter drive assembly for this condition, all the teeth on the ring gear should be inspected for damage. If significant damage is observed on three or more consecutive teeth, the flexplate assembly should also be replaced with part number 10128412 to avoid further incidence of this condition.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

Use applicable Labor Operations and Times.

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.