Starter issues after AX15 swap

[jazzyjeeper]

Hi y’all, I’m having some issues with my starter after getting my Peugeot transmission swapped out for the AX15. A friend suggested that I might need a different starter to fit the new transmission properly. I’ve been driving for 8 or so months with the new transmission and started having issues with the starter not engaging a few months ago. Usually it would start on the 2nd or 3rd try but yesterday I had to try maybe 15 times before it would start. I’m running a 4.0 manual 89 Eliminator.

 

I just took out the starter and the teeth don’t look mangled. I believe the starter is about 3 years old. Any ideas here? Thanks!

[pizzaman09]

What are the symptoms?  Does it make noise when you hit the key?  Do you hear the motor free spinning but it isn't engaging the flywheel?

[Htchevyii]

It sounds like the solenoid that is supposed to push the drive gear against the flywheel may not be engaging? I take it that you can hear it spin, but it's not cranking the engine? It looks like all 4.0 Comanches and even Cherokees up to 1998 take the same starter. Maybe see if the parts store can bench test or better yet just warranty it.  Hello from Humboldt!

[gogmorgo]

Is it bolted down all the way, and are the engine and trans fully seated together?

[cruiser54]

Is the aluminum plate between the bell housing and trans? 

[Htchevyii]

27 minutes ago, cruiser54 said:

Is the aluminum plate between the bell housing and trans? 

Looks like it is in the 2nd pic.