I have an 02 astro AWD, I replaced the started today, when I got it out we noticed that the starter gear was shiney on the back side, like someone had been grinding the starter on the flywheel after the van was already running. So I replaced the starter and it started right up. it shut off ok then I started it again, now I could tell that it was not disengaging! It stat=rted squeeling! and then after I shut it off, as soon as I would turn the ignition to the RUN position it would crank the motor over and start the car! not in the crank position but just the run position! I think possibly that the ignition switch has gone bad and this is probably what fried the starter! A couple of other symptoms are The security light is on , on the dash. And the spedometer is reading past 100MPH when it is sitting still! It stays peged all the time. Anyone else hav a similar problem? what was the outcome? Any ideas?
Try posting this on the www.astrosafari.com board, Im sure someone there has a better idea, or had experience with the same problem. Mark
either ignition switch or you have wires shorted together near the starter...check where they run down the back of the motor to the starter, where they are usually soaked with oil. That metal tube can cause problems.
I did post it on astrsafari as well and they had the same answer basically, check the grounds, look for shorts or it could be the ign switch. Thanks guys, Chris
That right there tells me your ignition switch has failed, or just possibly the problem is in the mechanical linkage between the key and the switch itself. Does anything feel a little "crunchy" as you twist the key? If it is indeed a failing/failed ignition switch, check it ASAP. Might cause a real nasty fire if it shorts out. My wife has an '01 Pontiac Montana, it will overspeed the bendix sometimes. I also have the factory service manuals, I'd think our vans would be pretty close to the same. Let me know if you need any specific info. Dan
