Hey all - I drive a '90 XJ with the 4.0 and AX-15 manual.

Last week I put in a new clutch, pressure plate, flywheel, throw out bearing, and pilot bearing. Got her all back together and everything works fine except the starter is now making some pretty gnarly grinding noises that it wasn't doing before.

Any idea why it's doing this now? Does it need shims?

Any info is much appreciated, thanks!

 

May need shims.....
Not sure what else would cause aside from need of starter shims or flywheel shims?

 

No shims on a 4.0.
Starter tight?

 

Like cruiser said. also make sure that nothing like dirt got on the mounting surface between the starter and the engine block to make it sit at a slight angle. I did that once and it did grind. I pulled it cleaned it reinstalled and no more grind.

 

Checked tightness...it was all good. Pulled the starter out and cleaned all mounting surfaces (they were quite dirty) and it seems to be making LESS noise, but still seems to be grinding harder than it should. Hard enough to elicit a "goddammit" every time I start... :-/ Is there some process of breaking in or getting used to a new, non-worn flywheel?

 

There should be no break in period. Did you check with a flashlight and mirror all the way around the bell housing? I have seen dowel pins hold up the bell housing from seating all the way. I have also seen the OE zip ties or breather tubes/wiring get stuck in the housing causing it to bind. It doesn't take much to get it off center. Look closely at the teeth on the starter and flywheel to make sure they are all good.