What makes a starter drag?

[f85gtron]

Relatively new starter, was on 2.8 for a few months, then transferred over to 3.4.  3.4 is new build, so still breaking in. The starter drags when hot. What causes this?

[TopNotch]

Did you check the gear meshing and use the correct shims when you transferred it to the 3.4?

[f85gtron]

No. I eyeballed it. I drilled the holes too close,.so i had to use shims already. Maybe I need another?  How does one measure such a thing?

[Raydar]

Also check all your connections and grounds.
It's also possible that the starter is just going bad.
If you end up replacing it, I understand that the lighter gear reduction starter for a 3800SC will work just fine for a 3.4 and 2.8. Never tried it, however.

[scottb]

Friction! Sorry, had too

On a more serios note, i put the later model starter on my 2.8, works just fine.

[TopNotch]

Click here for a document on how to shim a starter.
I used the newer starter on my yellow car when I rebuilt the duke. You can use the newer starter on any Fiero engine.

[f85gtron]

Thanks for the link!  Very informative. No whining after starting, so i guess it's not too close. Doesn't whine during starting, so i guess it's not too far.  Sounds like i might have to find one of those new type starters to play with.