The Official 356Talk Forum

I have a 2.1l Wilhoit engine in my 1957 356A - engine case is 1963 1600N with Type 741 transmission. The car is still 6v and the original starter struggled to spin the engine. Have put in the WOSP 6v High Torque starter and while it starts the car it is not much better than the original starter and makes a terrible banging sound when it is engaged - any thoughts on why this is happening?

I’d pull it out and look at the gear teeth. And inquire with the supplier.

I'd also ask John if he has changed or modified starters when a 2.2 is installed on a 6V car.

Mike

I do not think you can start your 356 on 6 volts let alone let the coil function properly i.e. produce a hot spark. I have been told by a local generator repair service that obtaining parts to fix 6 volt generator and starter armatures is impossible. There is a local Porsche repair shop (worded properly) that does conversions. Probably you should realize that other electrical components may also need an upgrade. Things that turn. Zim

Thanks for your comments - looks like 12v conversion is the answer.

Maybe a worn Starter Motor Bush in the Transmission ?
All the Best
David

The high torque starters don't extend into the bushing.

Allan: PM sent.

Mike

Had this banging problem with a high torque starter install, although not in a Porsche 356. Backed off the mounting bolts just the slightest and the banging stopped and the starter work as it should.
Worth a try....
Alan

Banging is a very strange noise for a starter. What do you think was improved by having it loose?

Who said anything about loose? Just relieved some stress.

I wonder if the noise would come back now if you retightened it. But you probably want to leave well enough alone.

I would contact Willhoit for advice. I am sure he has done more in 6v. Check with your local air cooled vw repair shops for 6v parts, you will be surprised.

David Nicholls wrote: ↑Tue Feb 07, 2023 5:06 pm Maybe a worn Starter Motor Bush in the Transmission ?
All the Best
David

agree with David. On the other hand, you can convert to 12 volt and use the original six volt starter, I have done on several of my cars and have not had a problem. Six volt systems are very sensitive to grounding problems and voltage drop so one needs to pay attention to that issue when trying to diagnose starter problems