Genuine 1985 Chevrolet El Camino Starter

1985 Chevrolet El Camino Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to Assemble and Install a Starter Motor with Correct Pinion Clearance on 1985 Chevrolet El Camino?

  A: Install the brush assembly to the field frame by first attaching the brushes to their holders, then assembling the insulated and grounded brushholders with the V-spring and locating the unit on its support pin. Push the holders and spring to the bottom of the support and rotate the spring to engage the V in the support slot. Connect the ground wire to the grounded brush and the field lead wire to the insulated brush, and repeat these operations for the second set of brushes. Smear silicone oil onto the drive end of the armature shaft and slide the clutch assembly (pinion to the front) onto the shaft, followed by the pinion stop/retainer with its open end facing away from the pinion. Stand the armature vertically on a piece of wood, position the snap-ring on the end of the shaft, and drive it onto the shaft using a hammer and hardwood. Slide the snap-ring down until it drops into its groove, then install the thrust collar on the shaft with the shoulder next to the snap-ring, squeezing the thrust collar and stop/retainer together until the snap-ring fully enters the retainer. Lubricate the drive housing bushing with silicone oil, ensuring the thrust collar is positioned against the snap-ring, and slide the armature and clutch assembly into the drive housing while engaging the shift lever with the clutch. Position the field frame over the armature, applying sealing compound between the frame and the solenoid case, and carefully place the field frame against the drive housing to avoid damaging the brushes. Lubricate the bushing in the commutator end-frame with silicone oil, place the leather brake washer on the armature shaft, and slide the commutator end-frame onto the shaft. Reconnect the field coil connectors to the MOTOR terminal of the solenoid, then check the pinion clearance by connecting a 6-volt battery between the solenoid S terminal and ground while fixing a heavy connecting cable between the MOTOR terminal and ground to prevent the starter from rotating. Energizing the solenoid will push the pinion forward into its normal cranking position. Push the pinion away from the stop/retainer to eliminate any slack and check the clearance between the face of the pinion and the face of the stop/retainer using a feeler gauge, ensuring it is between 0.010 and 0.140 inch for correct engagement with the flywheel or driveplate ring-gear; if incorrect, dismantle the starter to replace any worn or distorted components, as no adjustment is provided.