Car grinds every 5th start or so

[Scouzer]

1991 Chevrolet Beretta GT 3.1L V6 Automatic.

Every 5th start approximately either warm or cold when I turn it over it won't crank, it'll simply grind. I do have a remote starter.

Also, in very cold starts (sitting for 24 hours in -20 celsius) it whines very loudly for 30 seconds or so, then quiets down. It sounds a lot like a power steering system with no power steering fluid, except the fluid is fine.

Help?

 

[NutBucket]

Solenoid isn't engaging the starter fully.

 

[Scouzer]

Originally posted by: NutBucket
Solenoid isn't engaging the starter fully.

So what do I do to fix that?

 

[NutBucket]

Well, I'm not sure if the solenoid is a seperately replaceable part. Do you know where the starter is? Next time it grinds tap the solenoid with a hammer (it'll be the smaller cylinder on the outside of the actual starter). If that fixes it replace it.

 

[Scouzer]

Excellent. Thanks for your input!

Any thoughts on the cold start whine?

 

[NutBucket]

That could be a number of reasons. Could just be worn out bearing in your PS pump. I think mine are and it tends to be much louder when its cold.

 

[DougK62]

I also vote water pump for the cold noise - my 93 Beretta GT does the same thing.

If you're going to replace the starter, do yourself a favor and get one from the newer 3100/3400 engines - they're MUCH smaller, lighter, quieter, and better.