lessthan

Sorry if this isn't the correct forum, but I can't post in the one I think is appropriate.

Tried starting my 2009 and I believe only the starter is spinning. Very fast whirring. none of the normal sounds associated with a normal start.
After reading a bunch of posts, I now believe I had a weak or slow start and didn't know it out of ignorance of the symptom.

Regardless, fast whirring, no engine turnover.
Does my guess seem right? I am going to crawl under and tap the starter solenoid just in case it is stuck in order to save a tow to mechanic, but even if it works will be replacing starter probably.

few questions...

1. Assuming this is the original starter, should I insist on replacing complete starter regardless? or just solenoid if that is what my mechanic suggests? He is good and trustworthy, but I read there were "upgrades" to the oem starters.
2. I read over and over about bad battery connections at the terminals in most of the "starter" threads... this would affect a slow/weak start but probably not what I am describing, correct? I will check them regardless.
3. i read any manual trans starter will work but can anyone suggest part source and number if it isn't the obvious one on mazda-parts? I believe it is N3R2-18-400R-00 *EDIT* N3R3-18-400R-00 (I think this is the manual trans version)

THANKING YOU GUYS IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR TIME AN EXPERTISE.
I AM ABSOLUTELY LOVING MY RX-8. DREAM CAR....

Shaozhou Zhang

If your starter is spinning and your engine isn’t you should first determine if the starter gear is poping out, if they are, try to turn your engine’s flywheel’s ring gear by a wrench, is the ring gear is slipping you’ll need a new flywheel.

S2 already has the upgraded starter.

As for the sub section, before you have 30 days +10 post you can only post in New member and regional forum.