Here are links to rebuilding Model T starters and generators as presented last Saturday at the Mid-Winter Clinic in Kansas. Very good details.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCRdm6YiinM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7Psk4hK3gU

Excellent videos - very clear and detailed (as usual)!

Mike,
Thanks for posting this! I took apart my starter 5 years ago, now I need to get back together. I don't have the tools to do all of this, but I will see what I can do.


Matthew

I used and oxy/acetylene torch to remove the babbitt. I think that idea shown in the video using at tap and bolt is much better.

The reality is I risked messing up the springs and brush assembly. But it looks like they survived.

I then put the new sealed bearings in.


Note the brush housings are worn from the starter armature rubbing on them. This solved that problem!

I used and oxy/acetylene torch to remove the babbitt. I think that idea shown in the video using at tap and bolt is much better.

The reality is I risked messing up the springs and brush assembly. But it looks like they survived.

I then put the new sealed bearings in.


Note the brush housings are worn from the starter armature rubbing on them. This solved that problem!

Now I need to put a seal in on the bushing on the other side. Look at all the grease that build up from the oil coming through by design.



I have to watch the video again. As I understood it I can reuse the bushing, but need to cut the bushing and leave space for the seal. Using a new bushing would require having a reamer. Any added experience is appreciated.

Shoot. I've seen the ball unit listed and couldn't fathom where/how it fit.

Wait a second. Smaller Chinese ball bearing units are very sensitive and needing quite precise places to be fitted into...
Too tight and the balls are junk. Absolute junk with brand new Chinese bearings if too snug on the outer rim/race.
The balls are far too soft.
Sorry.
How is the the back/front end of the Ford starter for fitting a fussy bearing? Locktite?
I need to watch the videos again.

I got lucky and the starter I pulled from my new pile was pretty darned nice.
A spot of grease and away we go! It looks pretty good. And it works great. New business for me. A starter? Yep.
The brushes and holders were filthy 'tho so the brushes would've been out of the way for R and R of a Babbitt/ball unit.
Need to do again.
I really need to watch those videos. Oh. February. I did. ;-)
Need to again!
Thank you for bringing this back up Matthew!
The genny is next and I will tackle it. With the help of this forum.

Duey,
The bearings fit nice and snug and turn smooth
Matthew

Snug and turns smooth.

Thanks Matthew.
The bearing looks great!