For the last few times I have cranked the engine on my 72 Cutlass, the starter seems to be dragging and doesn't start the engine as quickly as usual. The original starter has 191,000 miles on it. How can you check the starter to determine if it is going bad? If it needs to be replaced, can it be rebuilt or would it be cheaper and/or wiser to just replace with a remanufactured one from Year One or some other vendor? Is it a pretty easy DIY job or would it make more sense to take it to a mechanic to install?

 

Its more likely to be a battery or connection problem.You have a starter that has lasted longer than it should have,at 190!??I'd put one on it,A/C DELCO!No substitute.A starter is'nt really hard to change,depending on how mechanical you are,it is aggravating.Get under there and look,you can see whats involved.Good luck with it,Later on,BO

 

Personally I like new NAPA starters & alternators, not rebuilt. My NAPA sponsor will not deal with rebuilt electrical components and have very few returns.

 

If you know your battery and cables are good, if that starter's slowing down it's not long for this world- esp with 190k on it!

Pull it off and if it is the original numbers matching starter any good auto electric shop can go thru it and have it performing like new in about half a day. I just had the one on the gray wagon done- after ten years and about 160k miles since last rebuild the brushes and holders were slap wore out.

 

You can have starters tested at any local auto parts store.