Starter / Clutch
 

Lately my rear engine has had an issue with the starter or clutch. When I engage the starter I can hear a noise (starter turning?) but the prop doesn’t turn for up to around five seconds. Then it turns over and starts. Thoughts and suggestions appreciated!

Probably the starter adapter. As they wear they slip. When both of mine failed (at exactly the same time coincidentally) I actually showed some metal in the oil filters. I cannot recall what type though. I'm leaning towards brass but a guess at that. I would need to check the books because I believe a note exists there. If you would really like to know, let me know and I'll dig deeper and get the answer. It has been many years. My recollection was it was rather pricey to overhaul these (maybe $2000 to $3000ish each years ago, also a guess) but I have been trouble and metal free since. i am not a mechanic so please do your own research. This has simply been my experience.

Good Luck,

Ed

It could also simply be the starter motor going bad. I have replaced both of those too over the years. That is easier to check than the starter adapter so I would probably start there. Talk to your trusted A&P/IA mechanic.