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Pinion Clearance Check

  1. Disconnect motor field coil at solenoid terminal "M", and insulate field connector. Connect 12 volts to solenoid terminal "S". Momentarily touch jumper lead from solenoid terminal "M" to starter frame, shifting pinion into cranking position.
  2. Push pinion as far as possible away from retainer. Using a feeler gauge, ensure there is .010-.140" (.25-3.6 mm) clearance between pinion and retainer. See Fig 1. On SD300 starter only, clearance should be .010-.160 (.25-4.06 mm).
NOTE: Pinion clearance is not adjustable. If clearance is not within specification, motor must be disassembled and rechecked.
Fig 1: Checking Pinion Clearance
G3540Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.