Loss of teeth on flywheel

[kwicky]

Whilst chaging my starter motor on my Ford Van I noticed about 4 consecutive teeth missing on the flywheel.

1. What has caused this?
2. Is it sensible just to replace the flywheel only?
3. How many hours labour will be needed to change it?
4. In the meantime if the vehicle is started with the starter motor not engaged how do you start the vehicle?
5. Should I replace the van?

Thanks

[colin6789]

1, The engine will keep stopping in the same place, this would be made worse by a tight bearing or a low compession cylinder.

2, I would replace the starter as well or at least the gear if you can change it. The clutch will have to come off so that could be replaced.

3, I do not know about time or cost but the type, Petrol/Diesel and age of van would help somebody on that.

4, You could try moving the van in first or reverse gear to move the engine. If you can get on a slope you could let it roll a bit and then drop the clutch to move the engine.

5, Depends on how much it is worth and if it as OK apart from this.

[david1702198]

the engine doesnt stop in the same place all the time!!???if it is the newer ford diesel engine (2.0 ltr or 2.4 ltr duratorq ) then there is a well known common problem on these engines, the flywheel cracks. could be this or just a worn ring-gear with broken teeth.

[combine]

If the starter spins and the engine fails to turn over just put it in gear and rock the van alonfg a bit to move the ring gear to a new position before trying the starter again. If you have to do this too often and get fed up with it either remember to always park on a hill of get it fixed