1965 Ford Mustang Starter Rebuilt

The new starter drive (also called a Bendix) is slipped onto a well-lubed shaft for smooth, predictable operation and retained with a shaft end clip.

All four brushes are replaced and attached by screws as shown. Screws should be clean and securely tightened for good current flow.

New shaft bushings are pressed in. This is the brush end cap with four brush holders getting a new bushing. Each has a spring retainer to hold its brush against the armature slipper. The drive housing (other end) also gets a new bushing. Bushings get a dose of molybdenum grease, which handles high temperatures quite well. Don't overdo the grease; use just enough to provide a lubrication wedge without getting all over the starter brushes and slipper.

Starter assembly begins by installing the armature (also called a commutator), then the drive gear housing shown here. The mechanism on top is the starter actuator drive lever. When you turn the key to "start," it energizes the starter winding, which creates a magnetic field to draw this lever toward the winding, moving the starter drive into the flywheel/flexplate ring gear. The drive return spring returns the drive to rest when you release the key.

The brush end cap is fitted and bolts installed. Carefully fit both ends and check for proper fit. Make sure both ends are indexed properly.

Four brushes are installed and retained via spring-loaded holders. Keep your fingertips off the brush contact surfaces. Skin oil can hinder continuity.

CAE installs a new brush cover band and starter drive cover. Purists will see the difference, especially in the drive cover. CAE can restore your original starter drive cover and band, which involves replating.

Gary's three-bolt Autolite starter has been professionally rebuilt, inspected, and tested.