starter/solenoid???? on 330 CAT

[Ragman]

I am having problems with my starter engaging into the flywheel. I'ts a hit and miss proposition. I'm assuming it's the solenoid, or a weak Bendix spring. We are now stranded at an RV park in Harlingen, Texas. I called a HOLT CAT dealer in McAllen and they told me there were 6 or 7 starters that were used on that engine. I called CAT to find out the part number and they informed me they shipped motors to Freightliner without starters. Called Freightliner, gave them the VIN and was told it was a Japanese starter and they gave me their part number which is NPD 2280008550. I called HOLT again and they told me they could order the part -- $495 plus freight--to arrive in 7-10 days.

I started checking with NAPA and after calling a couple I found they were able to convert their number to a NAPA part number, which is 91295404 for $379 plus freight. But it would also have to be ordered which would take a week to get it.

I'm getting ready to remove the starter and see if I can find a rebuild shop that could rebuild it in less time. I guess, all in all, I'm just surprised to see a Japanese starter on a CAT engine.

I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has had this problem, or have a crossover number to another type starter.

Happy Trails,
Larry

[94-Newmar]

NPD would be an abbreviation for Nippondenso. I called a local well trusted rebuilder/remanufacturer here in Columbus whom I've done business with in the past with great success.

Using the NAPA number you listed (91295404) they say that is a correct CAT starter number. They do not have a core on hand but they confirmed that they have all the internals to properly reman it on-hand. He said if you can overnight it to them they can rebuild/reman it the same day for $225.00 and get it back out same day to you - overnight. Might I suggest calling them and perhaps arranging overnight shipping?

Hite Parts Rebuilders/Remanufacturers Starters/Alternators/Carburetros/Fuel Injection- Columbus, Ohio

[Ragman]

Hi 94 Newmar,

Thank you very much for going to the trouble to call Hite and find out the information on the rebuild cost, etc. Fortunately, I found a rebuilder here in Harlingen who replaced the gear and shaft mechanism for $120 and I picked it up from him last night. I found out quite a bit about the Nippondenso starter from him. He told me it's the same starter on all CAT backhoes, as well as inline Dodge truck engines. The differences are the gear because of the different flywheels on the above. He assured me it was a very good starter and has seen very little problems with them over the years, which is good to know.

When I pulled the starter off, I found that the end gear had been eaten away about 1/4 inch. Also, the throw-out shaft was very loose and I could actually push it in and out. Fortunately, it didn't mess up my flywheel. Undoubtedly, the teeth on the starter gear are softer. Anyway, I'm getting ready to install it this morning and that should get us back on the road.

Again, let me thank you for your trouble. I joined IRV2 nine years ago and proudly carry their decal on the back of my MH and also my toad. It has been a great help over the years for me as well as many other Rvers.

Happy Trails,
Larry

[94-Newmar]

Excellent news! Glad you're going to be back on the road, always a pleasure to help everyone out here because so many have helped me from time to time.