Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1977 Fiat 128 BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Repair and Diagnosis: Electrical: Starters: Overhaul: Disassembly
The starter motor can be disassembled into the following components: Solenoid, commutator end plate, frame (containing field coils and pole pieces), armature, overrunning clutch and pinion drive gear, and pinion end housing.
- With the metal band (brush cover) removed from starter frame, disconnect lead from solenoid terminal and remove nuts from rod attaching solenoid to pinion end head of the motor and remove solenoid.
- Disconnect positive brush holder (insulated). Lift brushes and arrange ends of brush springs against sides of brushes to hold them off commutator.
- Remove nuts on tie-rods of the two supports, and remove brush holder bracket. Be careful not to lose thrust washers (one fibre, and one steel) on the pin.
- Slide frame off pinion end. Take out split pin from engaging lever pivot and remove pivot.
- The armature and thrust washers can be taken out with drive and fork lever. Remove the snap ring from armature shaft and remove drive parts in their proper order.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
