782 Starter Engagement
 

Good Afternoon.

I have a 782 that has been sitting a good 15yrs. For some reason, the starter engagement of the bendix is spotty at best.

Is it possible to lubricate the bendix / shaft or the bearing without removal of the engine? Are there any tricks to get this?

I see that you can remove the left engine cover and access..

Let me know.

Greg

Welcome to OCC.......... :Welcome2:


YES, it is possible. BTDT. You will need some long extension(s) on a Ratchet & Socket. I used a 1/4" drive and about 12" worth of extensions. Patience is the key.

The Bendix can be cleaned, or a new Bendix kit can be installed, or a whole new starter.

Just my 2 cents but I would pull the engine out, remove the tins and give it a good cleaning. If it's been sitting for 15 years it's very possible it has a mouse condo under the tins.

Yup!
That'll do it!!

You can try squirting some garage door lubricant on the starter shaft using the provided straw to aim it at the shaft/bushing area.
Now as far as the starter overrunning clutch,( sometimes called a bendix) kohler makes a specail lubricant that they use, I still have some, but it is NLA.
Most times they will free up with repeated usage.
I have replaced the starter without removing the engine and with removing the engine. both are a pain in the arse, but easier with the engine out, and you get to clean things, as others said and replace necessary driveline parts that are always worn.:bigthink: