Date:         Sun, 10 Feb 2008 16:42:14 -0500
Reply-To:     Edward Duntz <eduntz@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Edward Duntz <eduntz@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      starters-used vs. cheap rebuilt vs. Bosch rebuilt
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

I need to replace the starter in my '87 with stock 2.1 engine. It used to need an occasional tap if it wouldn't start, but now I have had to hit it with a hammer while a kind passerby turns the key. This has happened twice, both times in the rain and snow.
 
Already having put several thousand dollars into various mechanical systems in the last few years, and still having undiagnosed running/FI problems, I don't want to spend more than I need to on a starter. So now my question. 
 
I am trying to choose between a used starter for about $55, a cheap AutoZone starter for $90 and free shipping or a Bosch one for $115 (3/4 hp normally for 1.9 engine) or $130 (1 hp normally for 2.1 engine) also with free shipping. Those last two are from Autohaus AZ- best prices I could find. I'm not sure which one AutoZone is selling- they don't say if it is the equivalent of the Bosch SR19X or the SR401X. The Autozone one has lifetime warranty, the Bosch one year, but that includes towing and two years roadside assistance. (I don't know why they would give you roadside assistance for longer than the warranty, but whatever.)
 
It's tempting to get the cheapest rebuilt. I don't think I want to take a chance on a used. Has anyoe had any experience with the AutoZone Duralast 16722? 
 
Thanks,
Ed
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