I am having starter issues. My 455 usually starts, but increasingly the starter either clicks or spins without engaging the flexplate gear. I was checking out starters at NAPA and their remanufactured starter listed is a Rayloc 246-4800. Does anyone know if this is correct for a 71 cutlass 455? The block originally came out of a 73 of unknown model. The block casting is a F serif (no A), so should be consistent with a 71 if that matters. Also, is this a good brand starter?

 

Replace your solenoid first, your symptoms point to a bad solenoid. Buy yhe best one they have.

 

You may get away with just a simple repair of your current starter. Just replace the starter solenoid and the starter drive, both can be bought at your local parts store.

 

it's only $20 more for the whole assembly. I am not going to do the work myself (too weak after covid) and want to be sure to have the parts necessary when I bring it to the shop. I want to replace the whole unit which is currently a marine starter (The second home for the 455 was a jet boat), and solenoid and drive may not be compatible.