Pinion Clearance

1987 Ford Cutaway 6.9 1SECTION Pinion Clearance
  1. Disconnect motor field coil connector and insulate it carefully. Connect a battery from solenoid switch terminal to solenoid frame. Momentarily flash a jumper lead from motor terminal to solenoid frame.
  2. This shifts pinion into cranking position. Push pinion back toward commutator end to eliminate slack. Measure distance between pinion and pinion stop. When installing starter, check clearance between pinion and flywheel ring gear teeth.
  3. Insert a .020" (.60 mm) diameter wire, about 3" (76 mm) long, with a 1/4" to 1/2" 90 degree bend in end between pinion tooth and ring gear. Center pinion tooth between flywheel teeth when making measurement.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.