Starter motor on it's way out?

[Throbbinhood]

Hey, I've got an rb30 GQ manual.

When I turn the key, the motor doesn't turn over straight away - I get a slight whirring sound, but not the normal starter sound. I then get a loud clunk, followed by the starter turning normally and the motor starting.

I've swapped batteries to rule that out, and the connections to the starter are good.

Does this sound like an issue with the starter motor?

[mudski]

The solenoid could be sticking. Give it a few taps with a hammer see if this helps. I remember my old MK had similar issues. I removed the solenoid and pulled it apart, cleaned it up and lubed up the solenoid piston, if you call it that, with some lmm grease and was all good.

[Rossco]

Sounds like the solenoid is not throwing it out properly, so yes starter probably needs some love or replacing.

[4bye4]

Agree with Rossco and mudski, but important to do it as it could chip or damage teeth on the ring gear on the flywheel.

[Yendor]

Yeah, Agree with the guys above. Remove the starter motor and lube the plunger in the solenoid and the pinion gear on the the shaft in the starter motor.

[the evil twin]

Smack it wiff a 'ammer... worked on every Holden I ever owned.

[Throbbinhood]

Thanks guys. She's due for some love anyway. Still have to find my disappearing oil leak.

[mudnut]

Smack it wiff a 'ammer... worked on every Holden I ever owned.

And after you've done that, give the starter motor a smack with the hammer too

Please give me feedback on how you removed the RB30 starter, TH, as well as what you did to repair it.
That way I can post it in the sticky thread.

[Throbbinhood]

No worries mudnut, will do. Might be a while until I get to do it though.

[dom14]

Thanks guys. She's due for some love anyway. Still have to find my disappearing oil leak.

What disappearing oil leak?!