The starter motor fitted to HK, HT and HG Holden vehicles is mounted on the engine near the flywheel housing and is responsible for cranking the engine during starting. Although the starter motors used on these models are generally very reliable, removal may be required when diagnosing starting problems, replacing worn brushes, servicing the solenoid or installing a replacement unit.
The starter is connected directly to the battery through heavy electrical cables and engages the flywheel ring gear through a solenoid-operated drive mechanism. Because of the high current involved, care must always be taken when working on the starting system to avoid short circuits or accidental operation of the starter motor.
Safety Note
Before working on the starter motor or any part of the starting system, always disconnect the battery to prevent accidental electrical contact. If access requires working underneath the vehicle, ensure the car is parked on level ground and securely supported using properly rated axle stands. Never rely solely on a car jack to support a vehicle while working underneath it.
Starter motor removal procedure
Before beginning removal work, disconnect the battery to prevent accidental electrical contact.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal
• Locate the starter motor mounted near the flywheel housing
• Disconnect the main battery cable from the starter solenoid terminal
• Disconnect the ignition switch control wire from the solenoid
• Remove the mounting bolts securing the starter motor to the engine
• Carefully withdraw the starter motor from the flywheel housing
Once removed, the starter drive pinion and mounting surfaces should be inspected for wear or damage. Any loose wiring connections or corrosion at the electrical terminals should also be cleaned before reinstalling the unit.
Inspecting the starter motor
When the starter motor is removed, several components should be checked to ensure reliable operation.
• Starter drive pinion for worn or damaged teeth
• Flywheel ring gear condition
• Electrical terminals for corrosion or loose connections
• Starter mounting bolts and brackets
• Solenoid wiring connections
If the starter motor shows signs of internal wear, slow cranking or electrical faults, it may require rebuilding or replacement.
Starter motor installation procedure
Installation is essentially the reverse of the removal process, but several important checks should be made to ensure correct operation.
• Position the starter motor in the flywheel housing
• Install and tighten the starter mounting bolts securely
• Reconnect the ignition switch control wire to the solenoid terminal
• Reconnect the main battery cable to the solenoid
• Ensure all electrical connections are clean and secure
• Reconnect the battery and test starter operation
All electrical terminals should be clean to ensure good electrical contact, and a light coating of petroleum jelly can be applied to prevent corrosion.
Correct starter motor installation ensures reliable engagement with the flywheel ring gear and prevents electrical resistance that can reduce starter performance.
While this guide helps identify common engine problems, the Holden workshop manuals available from Car Manuals Direct provide the original specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when these vehicles were new.