The last major component of the automotive starter motor is the end plate or cover. It is attached to the back end of the starter housing or yoke by means of usually two long through bolts that screw into the starter motor head. Even though the end cover appears to be relatively simple in design, it serves several functions and is very important in the overall function of the starter motor assembly.
The end plate, on the inside, supports the aft end of the armature shaft by means of a center bore. The bore has a brass bushing or roller bearing in it to allow the armature shaft to freely spin. The bushing or roller bearing can be checked for wear, after disassembly of the starter, by placing the end plate on the armature shaft and rocking the plate. If the plate moves then the bushing or bearing will have to be replaced by pulling them out of the bore and installing a new one. When the bushing or bearing has been installed add a drop of oil to reduce friction between the armature shaft and bushing or bearing.
The end cover or plate may also support the starter brushes and holders assembly. As stated earlier, brushes can be replaced individually. But if the holders are damaged, or brush spring tension is worn out, and they are a part of the end plate, then the end plate or cover assembly will have to be replaced.
The end cover or plate provides easy access to the starter brushes for servicing. Many times, just removing the end plate from the starter while the starter is still secured to the engine makes for quick starter brush servicing, provided access to the starter is relatively easy.
The end cover or plate completes enclosing the interior components of the starter such as the armature and shaft, and brushes protecting them from the elements of nature.
Before doing any type of repairs, wear safety glasses, gloves, and clothing. Observe a safe work environment. Use safe work techniques and procedures.
Starter components can be purchased from a local automotive parts distributor such as NAPA, Carquest, Federated Auto Parts, Pep Boys, O’Reilly, AutoZone, or your local automotive dealer.
Gen-Star Electric located at 6832 N. 63rd Ave. in Glendale, AZ., or C & C Electrical Services located at 3046 E. Southern Ave. in Phoenix, AZ specialize in rebuilding and or repairing automotive starter motors.
If this procedure appears to be beyond the capabilities of the vehicle owner or driver, then testing and servicing starter motor brushes should be performed by a professional or ASE Master Certified mechanic. The vehicle would have to be taken to a repair shop that employs these types of mechanics such as A & M Alternator Services located at 2419 E. Jackson St. in Phoenix, Auto Electric Specialists located at 5216 W. Lamar Rd. in Glendale, Village Auto Electric Service located at 19 N. Miller St. in Mesa, All Start Electric located at 13501 E. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler, Jordan’s Automotive Specialists located at 8718 E. McDowell Rd. #3 in Scottsdale, Rob’s Quality Automotive located at 11801 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix, Scottsdale Pro Tech located at 8245 E. Butheruand Dr. #111 in Scottsdale, and Art’s Family Auto Repair located at 915 W. Hatcher Rd. in Phoenix.
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