The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The Electrical Bay Starter Linkage Seized

Not sure if this qualifies as electrical, but I figured it's a good place to start. The truck I just picked up has been sitting 5-10 years, and all the linkages are bound up tight. I'm assuming the starter linkage should be tight to prevent anyone from accidentally kicking over the starter when driving, but how tight is too tight? And what is the best way to free it up without damaging the starter? I was going to try some heat from a butane torch followed by some PB Blaster.

Oh, not sure if it makes a difference, but it's a 54 Chevy 3800. Thanks in advance.

Joe

My starter linkage is completely loose and relaxed without the starter return spring attached.

1954 mechanical (foot-operated) starter illustration (from the Shop Manual)

Another illustration from the Master Parts Catalog

Okay, so if I can get the spring off it should move, in theory. Is there like a hardware store equivalent of the spring or should I just try soaking it in lube to try and break the coils free? Thanks for the fast responses.

Joe

Vendors carry the springs.

Another silly question, what are some good parts sources for these trucks? I know RockAuto has a bunch of parts, but I don't have a lot of time to wait for parts, although online parts sources will be very helpful in the future. I have the usual parts stores around me; Advance, Napa, Autozone (which I refuse to walk into after the counter guy spelt "pressure" four different ways).

Napa should have a fair assortment of mechanical stuff. As for body, trim and some hardware you will just have to be patient and wait for the UPS guy. LMC, Jim Carter, Brothers, Mothertrucker, Steele Rubber and many others. Just shop the price since most parts (with the exception of rubber) come from the same manufacturer.🛠

It's all about who is behind the counter and if they are willing to get creative instead of relying only on the computer.
I have most of the local parts guys trained now so they know that when I come in I won't be looking for anything "normal".
Once you get past that obstacle things usually go pretty well.
Fred

I've been using classic chevy parts in Kansas City. Very professional outfit and fast shipping.

Chevs of the 40's, Classicparts.com.

I already have the Napa guys baffled. I walked in looking for rebuild kits for the madter and wheel cylinders and I don't think the counter guy was expecting 54 Chevy truck to come put of a 20 year olds mouth. I tried the Chevy dealership up the street and the older gentleman behind the counter lost his marbles when I showed him a picture of the truck. I've never seem a guy his age move so fast to try and hunt for parts. Then he came out of the back with the big master parts catalog for trucks from 46-72. I tried to get him to sell me the book but they wouldn't let go of it. If anyone needs parts numbers, I know where to get them.

Joe

I'll have to start pestering the guys at Napa for parts. They're pretty good at finding parts. Thanks for all the sources.

Joe

You can get those master parts books online at the old car manual project.
Jeffrey

Aww, way to kill the mood, Jeffrey. Lol, nah. I just thought it was cool that they had a parts book that old that was still in the original binder from 1979. The counter guy was more excited to see it than I was, since he thought it had disappeared years ago. It's good to know there are parts books available that have all the original numbers.

Joe