Just an update:  My new rebuilt starter was indeed at fault.

Replaced it and all is well.

Thanks,

James V

On 10/21/05 10:12 AM, "James V" <tornadored@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

> Recently I was experiencing progressively more sluggish starting on my 88
> until finally the starter wouldn't budge without a tap from a hammer.  After
> checking the battery (good), cleaning the contacts (and tranny ground), I
> ended up replacing the starter and bushing w/ a new rebuilt ("PPR") I
> ordered through my mechanic.
>
> It fired right up the first couple times, and turned strong.  Great.  But,
> later that day, I was getting nothing.  Tapping it with a hammer eventually
> gets it going.
>
> This happens both when cold and hot.  I tried "jumping" the starter by
> shorting the contact and I still get nothing except for the fuel pump.
>
> Is my "new" starter bad?
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> James V