Renault 21 Monaco - starter query

[dollywobbler]

Hi folksInspired by the Fuego love, and feeling refreshed after a nice break oop north, I attacked the 21 today. Starter isn't starting, so I thought I'd whip it off for a look-see. I've got three bolts out, but it still doesn't want to shift. How many bolts are there holding this thing in?! Access isn't a whole heap of fun, as the entire induction system gets in the way. Any help appreciated!Of course, I should really be working on the 2CV, which still has mahoosive exhaust leaks after I failed to refit the crossbox successfully. But that was inside the garage, and it was actually quite nice out!

[Station]

If it's not budging, it's either seized onto the gearbox housing, or the starter gear is seized onto the flywheel. Either way, give it a proper whack with a hammer, assuming all the bolts are out. ;)I got mine repaired professionally for 55 quid (brand new motor and solenoid), which was well worth it as it now starts 'on the button', it does make the difference.

[dollywobbler]

Thanks Station. I'll await a response from the Reno Resistance before resorting to whacking! I would like to get it fixed if I can. May have to do the BX one as well as it really struggled to start this morning up in Darlington.

[Station]

Just one crack on the side, it's quite meaty enough to resist a lot of abuse.

[Mr_Bo11ox]

I would take care about walloping starters, theres usually enough oil and vibration around to stop em seizing in. I bet theres another bolt off the back end of the starter into the engine block, and when you undo it, the starter will obligingly drop off and crush your hand into the gravel beneath.

[dollywobbler]

Thanks. I may go and give it a gentle nudge as from what I can see, there should just be the three bolts. I don't think they've been out since the car was new as two were very reluctant to get turning (you know in that way that you increase pressure on the ratchet, just waiting for it to slip and for you to slice your arm open on something sharp!)

[Richard]

Renault starters are utter bastards- and it's possible for them to have four bolts.

[Minimad5]

I think these only had 3 bolts (i could be wrong !)Isn't it called the Paris Rhone starter ?

[Alpineandy]

2 liter or 1700?

[warren t claim]

If it's a manual then put it in 4th and rock the car slowly. If it's an auto then sit in the corner rocking backward and forwards yourself.

[meggersdog]

Usually three bolts through the bell housing but IIRC some Renaults of that era have a small bracket the other end bolted to the block

[mouseflakes]

Three bolts and a dowel I would guess. Can you get a sturdy blade between the starter and bell-housing or is the access too poor?

[dollywobbler]

Blade may be an option. I did try some gentle whacks (can't really get enough access to belt it, so fear not Mr B!) with no joy. Rocking is another possibility.It's a 2-litre, so longitudinal.

[Richard]

2 liter or 1700?

It's a 2 litre.

[Station]

and when you undo it, the starter will obligingly drop off and crush your hand into the gravel beneath.

There must be another bolt, but you've sometimes got to give it a good yank to get it out. Trying prizing it out with a screwdriver. Agree on dropping it on foot.

[Minimad5]

Heat the devil up (if you can)Or spray it with plumes of WD40

[mr-reno-139]

dont be silly there is a support bracket at rear of starter 2 rightangle brackets 13mm heads

[dollywobbler]

Darn, I was about to get the blowtorch out!Cheers Mr Reno. If the rain lets up, I'll get out and try and find the bracket.

[Minimad5]

Mr reno to the rescue

[dollywobbler]

Thanks to the totally top Ratdat, I now have lots of documentation for Renault 21s. Should have waited for this BEFORE starting the job really, especially as I'm still waiting for the new starter motor but hey, nevermind eh?