Ok no snide remarks.

My 98 Z24 with 101K miles won't start. When I turn the key it makes a whirring noise like a playing card in a bicycle wheel. It's got the orginal battery (I know, I know, I was planning to get one next week.)

Any ideas?

 

try tapping the starter or having someone tapping the starter while you are turning the key, could be a bad tooth/teeth on the starter

 

A whirring noise and a card in a bicycle wheel are two different sounds! I agree that if it sounds like it is spinning the starter is not engaging and a whack to the starter can help it dislodge itself, and if is clicking the battery may not have enough power to crank the engine or a bad connection - clean your terminals first then try to jump it if that doesn't work!

 

No way I can figure out sounds from "whir" and "card in bicycle wheel"!

On a hunch, with 101k miles, is it possible he dropped a timing chain?

Good luck,
Steve R.

 

The "whir" is likely the starter motor turning, but not engaging. The clicking sound is likely the solenoid not getting enough juice to keep it engaged. They are likely both related to inadequate juice from the battery, however it is possible that your starter is giving you problems as well.

Try jumping the battery. If it starts OK, then replace the battery.

 

Check battery & connections. If they're good and it's still clicking, it's probably the solenoid itself. Not sure about chevy's but the solenoid and starter are only sold together for my accord. Costed around $70 I think.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by slalom44
The "whir" is likely the starter motor turning, but not engaging.