i put in some new contacts yesterday and now my starter sounds completely different! the contacts were wider and just a smidgen thicker but i dont think that would make it sound different. it cranks quick and everything i just dont think it sounds right. those of you that know what those starters on the pre powerstroke ford diesels sound like... mine now sounds EXACTLY like one. any ideas?

 

Maybe you lost the little ball that goes at the end of the plunger?

 

I didn't see anything where is it exactly, would I have seen it stuck in the end of the plunger or does it stay in the body of the starter?

 

It usually stays in the starter but not always.
Easy to not see it escape.
I have no idea what would happen without the ball except it probably would wear down the end of plunger shaft fast.