Crank "cancelled", then computer cranked too long?

[me88]

I recently turned the key and momentarily kept it at the crank position as usual. Normally the computer keeps the starter running for a second until the engine runs. But instead the starter turned for maybe a split second and stopped, all the lights were on and nothing happened. So I turned it to the crank position again and this time it started, but the starter stayed engaged for maybe half a second after the engine was already running making a terrible and loud screeching sound.

Subsequent tries it started perfectly fine. First time it did something like that in 13 years.

Is the starter on its way out (too slow to retract?, sticky solenoid/relay?) or was that just a one-time fluke?

 

[Geotrash]

I recently turned the key and momentarily kept it at the crank position as usual. Normally the computer keeps the starter running for a second until the engine runs. But instead the starter turned for maybe a split second and stopped, all the lights were on and nothing happened. So I turned it to the crank position again and this time it started, but the starter stayed engaged for maybe half a second after the engine was already running making a terrible and loud screeching sound.

Subsequent tries it started perfectly fine. First time it did something like that in 13 years.

Is the starter on its way out (too slow to retract?, sticky solenoid/relay?) or was that just a one-time fluke?

I’d keep an eye on it. Sounds more like a weak starter relay to me. Weak grounds or internal corrosion in the battery cables could also cause this behavior.

Odometer mileage would also help us help you.

 

[me88]

Mileage is ridiculously low for American standards, less than 100k miles. It hasn't done it again since, found out that the headlight relay is identical to the starter relay in the engine bay fusebox. No other electrical issues.

 

[me88]

So today it did that noise again, but cranked completely normal. Starter ran normal, engine fired up normal and maybe a second after startup it did that short screeching sound again. It was fully warmed up, parked for maybe half an hour and outside temp was very hot (almost 100°F). So far it has never done that noise when cold.

I almost suspect that instead of the starter it's one of the two drive belts making noise when load is applied to it during startup. They are original, probably a good idea to replace them both even though they still look ok (no cracks etc.).

 

[Geotrash]

So today it did that noise again, but cranked completely normal. Starter ran normal, engine fired up normal and maybe a second after startup it did that short screeching sound again. It was fully warmed up, parked for maybe half an hour and outside temp was very hot (almost 100°F). So far it has never done that noise when cold.

I almost suspect that instead of the starter it's one of the two drive belts making noise when load is applied to it during startup. They are original, probably a good idea to replace them both even though they still look ok (no cracks etc.).

So the belts are 13 years old? Yep, it's time.

 

[Doubeleive]

the starter solenoid could be getting sticky, I would confirm the source, if it is the starter then perhaps consider replacing it they do not last forever I would recommend oem so maybe it will last another 13 years
heck maybe a glob of grease in the solenoid area might fix the problem that would require pulling the starter.

 

[me88]

...heck maybe a glob of grease in the solenoid area might fix the problem that would require pulling the starter.

If I have to take the starter out, the old one will not go back in. I'll rather get a new one.

I ordered the ACDelco kit (2x belts, tensioner, idler pulley) and see if the noise reappears with these new parts in it.

 

[me88]

So the kit contained these parts:
Gates K060935HD
Gates K040355SF
39083-05
36299

Also got the ACDelco/Gates installation tool 91030 for the stretch belt, that worked perfectly to get the new AC belt on just like it is shown in the service manual. The old idler pulley had no play and made no noise when spun by hand, but the tensioner pulley was worn. Spun by hand it made a metallic ball noise (I'm sure y'all know what I mean) and it had noticeable play in all directions. No visible signs of any wear on both belts, no cracks in the ribs or anything.