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Wed Aug 13, 2025 12:38 pm

Did a search in the forum and found some good tips for a starter install, but thought I would ask if there are any 'lessons learned' that might make the process easier. I'm planning to use an M12 tap to remove the old bushing and the D bolt and a 13mm socket to seat the new one. I've done a fair amount of troubleshooting including cleaning all connections including the main ground. At the suggestion of a friend I went ahead and replaced the battery, but I'm starting to wonder about the new one. It wouldn't turn the starter and after I got the car towed home I checked the voltage and it was at 12V. Charged it overnight night and it read 13.2 which gave me one grunt from the starter after which it fell to 12.9. It's back on the charger now and should I have the same experience tomorrow morning I'll take it back where I got it. One thing you do find out when you're stuck by the side of the road is that there are a lot of nice people out there.

Wed Aug 13, 2025 1:40 pm

What model starter was installed. Was it the SR15 type or the SR17 type self supporting starter? Parts callout 003 911 023 B, looks to be self supporting (SR17)

Wed Aug 13, 2025 2:04 pm

Hmmm, not sure. I assume you're asking because the self supporting doesn't require a bushing? If that's the case, can a self supporting starter be replaced by a starter and bushing? I ordered the starter from JBugs and it's purported to fit a Thing, but that and four bucks will get you a coffee at Starbucks. I will get under the car tomorrow and see if I can make out the part number. I was able to make out Bosch on the solenoid but that was as far as I got.

Thu Aug 14, 2025 8:13 am

Pulled out the old starter this morning. PN 211 911 023. I called JBugs and asked if the SR15NEC starter that I ordered is compatible and was assured it is. I felt around in the bellhouse opening and it feels as though there's a bushing in the space where the starter shaft rides. Picture of the business end of the starter on JBugs site looks like what I pulled from the car. Time will tell. Put the old starter directly on the battery. The solenoid extended the starter motor shaft, but the starter motor didn't spin, so I feel good about replacing it. I will update later.

Fri Aug 15, 2025 5:14 pm

Installed the new starter today. It was a perfect fit and cranks like mad. I got scared off of installing a new bushing, so we'll see what happens. Here's my tip to anyone installing a starter; if you have an oil bath air cleaner, remove it before trying to take the nut off behind the fan shroud. Otherwise, the car will claim it's pound of flesh.