Reliable Starter Motor

[ReggieT25]

I need to replace the starter motor/solenoid on my 1986 T25 petrol 1.9 automatic as the old one has packed in. As I have an automatic I am solely reliant on the this so I wanted to get as good quality as is possible. Does anyone have any good recommendations?
According to the Haynes manual the part type is Bosch Pre-engaged (minimum brush length 11.5mm
Any advice or good experienced welcome. thanks

[R0B]

A high torque starter would be the best option(expensive though) http://www.gowesty.com/product-details.php?v=&id=23526" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; Campervanculture can get you one imported.ECP can do you a standard one http://www.eurocarparts.com/ecp/c/Volks ... &1&&000308" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; for £119.69 If you give them your old starter.You have to order online using the discount code SAVE30 and then pick it up from your local depot.

[syncroandy]

It doesn't seem to be available retail in the UK yet, but a pattern of adapter plate exists, sold by Westyventures and others, which allows use of a more modern Golf4 Bosch starter. Personally if wanting to upgrade a WBX starter, this is the first option I'd consider, as this approach worked very well for me with a TDI swap (different pattern plate, but similar starter).

http://westyventures.com/parts.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[ReggieT25]

Really helpful information. Sadly not able to get hold of either option for a number of weeks - I will get a refurb. done locally and look into these options for the longer term. Thanks

[chris7ian]

When I had starter motor issues on my 2.1 Auto I had real trouble locating a replacement. Companies woud list them and take orders then a few days later return my money saying the part os unavailable. One company came up trumps but the motor didn'tphysically fit without fouling the trottle linkage. The splindle was also a different length. They refunded and no longer list the part.
In the end i went the old school way and found a local refurb business that specialised in elecrtic motors and starters - they took my Bosch and re-wound fitting new parts. Good as new now, and about the same cost as buying a replacement
They even collected the starter on their way home from work so they could get started as I was in a hurry having booked a ferry the following week!

[R0B]

Did you try ECP they have had them in stock for as long as i can remember.How much did you pay for the refurb?.

I had real trouble locating a replacement

Good as new now, and about the same cost as buying a replacement

[chris7ian]

At the time (summer 2013) I tried EVERYONE! I'm lucky to have ECP within walking distance too All the suppliers that listed them as 'in stock' then turned down the order and refunded. I even contacted Bosch directly...
I can't remember the price I paid for the refurb unfortunately but after the hassle I had it was well worth it

[JeffRoo]

Hi, I've just replaced mine on a 1.9 DG engin. Although mine is manual gearbox gsf did show one for automatic, although it did look expensive compared to manual one. Make sure you change the oilite bush in the bell housing as well. Really good tip on wiki about using m12 tap.also make sure you "load" the bus with oil. I didn't soak mine for 24 hours but loaded it with thumb and finger method. Did mine without ramps, but was a squeeze as it has been slightly lowered. Now starts better than it ever has before!
Good luck

[JeffRoo]

*bush, not bus. That would be a right mess!!

[chris7ian]

*bush, not bus. That would be a right mess!!

There's no bush in the auto starters