Hello all. In the past few days, my 1990 245 has developed a nasty sound when I turn it over to start it. The best way I can describe it is a scraping sound. To me it sounds like the starter. It will even continue just past the point where the car actually starts.
Is this an easy fix...something I could do myself? Thanks everyone.

You're right, it is the starter. It can be replaced, but it's a ROYAL PITA. Check the archives. If you don't have much for tools (like me), it might be worth it to take it in...

My car did this about two years ago, but only when it got to be cold outside, say below 45 degrees or so. Talk about an attention getter. What is really bizarre that was one day I was using some WD-40 underneath the hood and I don't know if I got some near, around, in (if possible?) the starter, but from that day on, my car has not squeeled/screeched since. Whether it was a coincidence or it actually worked is beyond me. Just thought I'd share.

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Regards,
Eric Staufer,
'89 244DL 123k
My 240 Page (new window)

Maybe the starter gear shaft was "sticky" so the gear wasn't retracting properly after starting, resulting in starter gear teeth against rotating ring gear teeth noise.

Wd40 lubed/washed the starter shaft allowing it to slide back away from ring gear.
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1980 245 Canadian B21A with SU carb and M46 trans