[hal101]

yes it sounds like a starter prob but i would try disconnecting the HEI next time you have this prob and just see if it cranks better

[jamaca85]

Maybe ignition switch...check the wires coming out to make sure your getting 12v...out...to starter..before replacing the starter

[Interceptor]

Originally Posted by hal101

yes it sounds like a starter prob but i would try disconnecting the HEI next time you have this prob and just see if it cranks better

You mean disconnect the vac advance?

["QUICK-SILVER"]

Originally Posted by Interceptor

You mean disconnect the vac advance?

He meant unplug power to the distributor. Then see if it turns over with ignition disabled.

If it does turn over...Would still need to do the cold and hot amp draw test to see what's really going on.

This thing not turn over at all or barely turn and grunt to a stop?

Grunt to a stop: could be too much initial timing OR starter just not strong enough to do the job for some reason.

Bought a rebuilt high torque starter many years ago. It wouldn't turn the engine over when hot. Tested perfect at the parts store. New battery, new cables, same problem. Opened the starter up and found a small armature in a high torque case. Needless to say, it was weaker than the weakest starter ever made for Pontiac engines.

Clay