starter problem

[steven.0424]

when starting engine sometimes starter turns engine then whiring noise then what seems like engine kicking back you think whiring could be solenoid not kicking in properly or slipping clutches im not real sure can any one help

[asavage]

Failing starter clutch, yes. Whirring is clutch not engaging (this is an internal starter function, not the gear teeth on the flywheel), then suddenly grabbing which is your "kicking back" noise.

Can't be the solenoid, because power to the starter motor is not ON until the solenoid plunger is fully retracted, by which time the starter gear is fully out and engaged with the flywheel teeth.

Experience has shown that the solenoids do fail frequently on these old Hitachi starter, but the manner in which they fail is that the still work mechanically but do not send power to the starter motor: "click/clunk" but no "whirr". I doubt you have a solenoid problem (yet).

See Hitachi starter variations for some basic pictures, and LD28 starter solenoids for more information on Hitachi starter solenoids.