Can I Use a 3/8" Bendix Spring on a 5/16 drive?

[Dino's A]

I was told that it's ok to do this. Actually, there is little difference
in the eyelet diameters. Anyone have any experiences doing this?

Second question: Along with that special lock washer, is it ok to use
a little loctite as well?

Dino

[Bob Bidonde]

Get rid of the Bendix drive and go modern.

[jimvette59]

No !

[bobbader]

CAN YOU? Yes, SHOULD YOU? NO, not if you don't want possible problems down the road. I know it doesn't look like a big difference in the eyes of the spring where the bolt goes through. But, with vibration, that eye can "walk" just enough that the lock washer tab that folds into the eye is useless.

You should find a proper 5/16" spring.

Or, if you opt for the modern drive as suggested above, opt only for the USA unit if possible.

[AL in NY]

I may be wrong, but I thought the two different start motor shaft diameters were early 28 = 1/2" all the rest 5/8".

[Dino's A]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Originally Posted by bobbader

CAN YOU? Yes, SHOULD YOU? NO, not if you don't want possible problems down the road. I know it doesn't look like a big difference in the eyes of the spring where the bolt goes through. But, with vibration, that eye can "walk" just enough that the lock washer tab that folds into the eye is useless.

You should find a proper 5/16" spring.

Or, if you opt for the modern drive as suggested above, opt only for the USA unit if possible.

The company that makes the U.S. made modern Bendix drive & the original style are out of business. When I first bought the US made one, the back bolt ejected out of the collar after 2 times turning the motor over.

Long story short, both bolts were NOT 3/8" X 24. My first indication something was wrong is when I installed the drive. The front bolt you tighten down, would not thread all the way down. I was able to get it to seat down finally on the spring & washer. The back bolt was factory assembled. It was the back bolt that came completely out. Someone at the factory just shoved the bolt into the drive.

I think my best plan of attack is to to use new, correct bolts on the US one. I just got
some ones from another supplier and they fit good.

On my old 5/16 Drive, hunt for a 5/16 spring and have a spare one.
Or hunt for a modern drive (NOS).