[Fot] TR3/4 starter issue

[Jack Brooks]

Amici,

 

I am finally looking to install a gear reduction starter in my (post 60K)
Street/Auto-X  TR3A.  I believe I need the long later starter, as that is
what is in the car, but I have some function issues which I do not
understand.  My configuration is as follows:

 

Block:  TR4

Tranny: TR3, non-syncro OD.  The small starter bulge on the tranny has been
modified/extended to accommodate the longer starter.  The hole is covered to
keep dirt and moisture out.

Flywheel: TR4A-6 style, with bolt on ring gear, lightened to 22 pounds 

Clutch:  Clutchmaster TR6

 

I believe the fact that I am using the TR4A-6 flywheel and bolt-on ring gear
drives the need for the long starter.  Any help in confirming this would be
appreciated. 

 

While this combination has been in place for at least 10 years, I do get
times when the starter spins up, but does not "catch" the ring gear, so it
does not turn over the engine.  Restarting always catches, although
sometimes this could take a few tries.  I've always thought this was the
starter needed an overhaul, but have not taken the time to pull it and see.
The starter pinion and ring gear never crunch.  It either engages well or
not, although it may engage and "slip out" occasionally.  This
non-engagement gets worse with decreasing temperature.  On a 40 degree day,
I have tried over 15 starts before it'll catch.  This is unacceptable.  

 

I want to be sure this is a starter problem and not a component problem
before I install a new starter and potentially cause problems.

 

Also, any help on figuring out the non-engagement and slipping issues would
be great.  

 

Just for grins, is there any way to tell which starter is installed without
pulling it out?  It's been a while.

Thanks in advance,

 

Jack

 

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