So I've read all about the elusive 12 pt upper starter bolt. My car has times where the starter doesn't work and suspect a dead spot. In trying to remove the starter I cannot find the 12 pt bolt. I'm attaching pictures. Is this where the bolt should be? Is it snapped off by PO?

Hopefully someone that has done this will recognize something in these pictures. I just can't figure out how to remove the starter.

I loosened the lower bolt and the starter still seems tight to the motor.

Tips appreciated.

87 XJS LHD V12

 

I don't see it. Sorta looks like the 12-point bolt is gone and has been replaced with a socket head allen bolt?

Cheers
DD

 

Or broken off?

On second look I'm even less sure about the socket head allen bolt idea

Cheers
DD

 

I literally just did this last night. I think its covered in crud. It took a long extension, a swivel, and a 1/2" 12 point socket to get mine out. It is tucked so close to the bell housing, that its kinda a miracle that you can get to it at all. Its tucked back in that indented area below the locate dowel, but above the starter bulge.

 

Do you see what should be it in these pictures. There is what looks like an allen bolt, and above that a hole that looks like it could have had a recessed bolt in it that broke off. I couldn't get an allen wrench to fit the thing. decided I needed a break from it. This thing is going to be a pig I think.

 

I thought it was a torx on mine. Until I tried a 1/2" 12 point socket, using a swivel, a 18" extension, and a pull bar, I got it. It was stuck really good. Then today, I get the call from my guy at the starter shop that my Marelli starter is "crispy". Said only two of the 4 brushes were touching the armature, and if I were going to keep the car, he recommends a new starter.

 

You were right. It was a 12 pt after all. That hole in the middle of it faked me out big time and it didn't look like a 12 pt with the crud and stuff. Finally got the bolt out tonight. Will finish it later. Just wanted that damn bolt in my hand.

Thanks.

 

No problem! Looks like I'm going back with a gear reduction starter, as there are no parts available for the Magnetti Marelli starter, and chances of finding a good used one seem slim to none.