clutch_dog

I just put on a new starter, is there a spacer that I need like on a the 5 and 6 speed manuals. This truck is an automatic and after I put this new started in it was making a not so good sounding voice while trying to start and now its broke?

It is a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 5.9l cummins automatic. I

SIXSLUG

Shouldn't need a spacer on an auto IIRC. Sounds like a dud.

jrs_dodge_diesel

Yes, there is no spacer needed on the automatic trucks.

AlpineRAM

Do you still have your stock starter?

Compare the starters, maybe you got the wrong one.

The stock starters can be rebuilt, and are of a very good quality.

clutch_dog

Now, I am on my second starter still have a god awful grinding noise right after you let go of the ignition after it fires. Yesterday went to start the truck and fired once and died cause it cold so went to try again and all the starter did is make the good awful grinding noise without even engaging the fly wheel to try and turnover the truck. Should I try a spacer? Do you know does dodge have the spacer?

Also now the top bolt on the starter won't tighten just sits and spins? It threads but won't tighten up, any idea how to fix this? I thought about drilling and tapping a new bolt in there but don't know how easy that is going to be.

Thanks.

AlpineRAM

Now you have either a damaged flexplate or the starter deflects because it's held on with only one bolt.

gorms

I lost the threads on the top bolt as well, drilled and tapped out to the closest SAE thread I believe. Has been fine for a few years now. Bell housing adapter is aluminum so be careful.

You do not need a spacer, sounds like the starter needs to come out anyway so inspect the flywheel teeth while it's out. If you turn the starter gear by hand (while its out) it should slide out and spin in one direction and not move in the other.

What was wrong with the old starter?

oliver foster

The starter spacer is needed on some 6 speed ONLY.

I personally would have the original starter rebuilt rather than trusting the junk "lifetime" starter from the local parts store.

Like Gorms said drilling and tapping the upper bolt hole is your best solution now that it is hogged out.