Starter Help!

[Fergifruitchew]

Sometimes when i go to start my 4runner the starter engages but doesnt grab. it goes ZZZZZT until i release. I replaced the starter contacts-ended up with the same problem. i have 2 new batteries in the engine bay so its not a battery power issue. I also hotwires the starter and it does the same thing! Most of the time it starts-its just that random start that goes ZZZZT and its loud and embarrasing since im driving the best brand of vehicle :P haha.... Can anyone help me figure out this issue?

[fourwd1]

The starter is composed of two main parts, the starter motor itself and a solenoid which has 2 functions - pushing the drive gear into the flywheel and making a high-current contact to supply battery power directly to the motor.

The ZZZZZT noise maybe the starter motor turning, but the solenoid is not pushing the drive gear out into the flywheel, so the engine won't start.

[Fergifruitchew]

okay, so what do i need to do to fix it?

[jetwhine]

fergifruitchew,

A new starter.

[fourwd1]

Originally Posted by jetwhine

fergifruitchew,

A new starter.

Yeah, maybe I should have included that bit of info