cream crackered starter motor

[mudstud]

Last couple of times I've started the beast the starter made a horrible noise before starting to turn the motor. Today starter makes a little noise and engine does not turn. Is starter easily changed out? I have a good mechanic on my street. Any tips on replacement to improve longevity, I think I've heard someone mentioning thermal insulation?
Any tips appreciated. Car is a early 99 4.5.


>>> Edited by mudstud on Thursday 24th October 14:41

[mudstud]

Just tried a few more times and starter did manage to engage and start car. Looking in my trusted 'Car Doctor A-Z' it tells me:
For a inertia type starter this could be due to the drive pinion sticking to the spiral - the cure for this is free and lubricate the drive pinion with a light oil - usually it is necessary to remove the starter to do this.
For a pre-engaged starter the problem is likely to be the solenoid which will need replaceing.

Anyone know if the starter has a solinoid - i.e. is it a pre-engaged starter on the Cerbera?


>> Edited by mudstud on Thursday 24th October 15:57

[jdf]

I seem to remember reading somewhere on pistonheads that reconditioned starter motors are available through TVR dealers at a cost of ~£150. Not sure how easy they are to fit.

[simond001]

New starters are available for £125 from Curds in Tunbridge Wells. Speak to Tim (my neighbour).

Bloody nice chap, can fit if you are local, or will post out. These are OE, he buys direct from manufacturer, bypassing the TVR markup.

[mudstud]

Starter Motor now sorted thanks to Joospeed. Did call Curds, price was £ 150 ish. Would have followed this up but Julian's one had arrived. Problem was with a clutch mechanism in the starter motor. Took Julian about an hour to fit.