Gil’s Garage
Gil Baumgartner
CTCI Authenticity Chairman
A problem you do not need unless you are at home with the car in the garage is to have the starter bendix malfunction. When the ignition switch is placed in the start position the starter spins at a high rate of speed, centrifugal force moves the spring loaded bendix forward and engages the fly wheel teeth which turns the engine to initiate the start.
Usually the first indication of a malfunction is when you attempt to start the engine, the starter spins with no load and sounds like an electric motor running (which it is). When this happens the bendix spring or retainer washer on the end has usually broken.
I am not aware of any type of preventive maintenance for the bendix. I recommend changing it if the starter is replaced and to avoid if possible accidentally engaging the starter with the engine running. I also recommend carrying a spare when on a trip. The basic FoMoCo part number is 11350 and is priced at about $35.00 at most parts dealers.
Gil