Only once in a while, when I go out to start the car, all I will get is a whine when I turn the key, kinda like a grinder noise whine. Then after a few seconds it will either pop then the engine turns over, or the engine will just turn over... It seriously sounds like the starter doesnt have any teeth.

What do you guys think?

 

If it makes an unusual grinding noise, immediately release the key. It sounds like you might have a bad spot on the flexplate teeth or your starter drive gear is worn and not engaging fully every time.

 

right, I release the key, then try again, usually the 2nd - 3rd try she fires right up.

 

Sounds like it could be a problem with the starter solenoid not moving the starter drive gear out to engage the flywheel. It might be that the solenoid is on it's way out if it only does it occassionaly.

 

Thanks,

Once it warms up a few more degrees ill jack the z up and check it out.

Let you guys know -

 

it definatly sounds like a starter solenoid.
see it happen all the time on the cheap starters for older chevy's and fords. I know for the older starters you can purchase just the solenoid for cheap, assuming you can get a solenoid for the LT1 starter. I know the entire starter isn't that cheap for the LT1. if you can, take the starter out and take it to your local parts store. They should have a testing booth for starters and alternators. Even better just pull the starter and manually give the solenoid 12v and ground to see if it works properly/consistently.

good luck

 

Unfortunately, the solenoid is not serviceable separately on the LT1 starter.

 

I agree with the solenoid not knockin the bendix drive into place.. Might not be pushing it far nuff onto the flexplate(flywheel) (didnt see if u had an auto or a stick car) but thats stuff uve allready heard

 

Yea, it's an auto, since its warmed up a little more, I havent had it whine before starting..

 

jack up your car, get a light under there and take off the inspection place covering the bottom part of the union of the tranny to engine. Check the teeth on the flexplate to make sure at least some are still there. Might be a little dangerous, but get in a position with a light to see the starter and have a friend try and crank it over. Watch to see if the starter and solenoid work correctly.
try and crank over the flexplate with a large screwdriver to inspect all the teeth.

 

sounds like a good plan. but after getting the plate off.. id get a flashlight and a mirror so u dont have to be under the car so much yet u can still see.. i dont like the idea of someone playing with the starter on jackstands with someone underneath it.. just not my thing