A Guide to the Starter for the 1964-1979 Buick Riviera
Solve common starting problems and get your classic Riviera turning over reliably with the right new aftermarket starter.
- Heat soak is the most common starter problem for the 1964-1979 Riviera; upgrading to a modern high-torque, gear-reduction starter is the best fix.
- Before replacing the starter, always confirm your battery is fully charged and the cable connections are clean and tight, as these issues can mimic starter failure.
- New aftermarket starters from brands like Remy or high-torque units from Powermaster can offer improved reliability and performance over old, original-style starters.
- Replacing the starter is a manageable DIY job for home mechanics, but checking for proper gear clearance with shims is a critical step to prevent noise and damage.
Is Your Riviera's Starter Failing?
A bad starter can leave you stranded. Before replacing it, always make sure your battery is fully charged and the battery cables are clean and tight. Poor connections can mimic the symptoms of a failing starter. If the battery and cables are in good shape, look for these common symptoms.
Common Failure Symptoms
- Single Loud Click: When you turn the key, you hear one loud click, but the engine doesn't crank. This often means the starter solenoid is working, but the motor itself has failed.
- Slow, Labored Cranking: The engine turns over very slowly, as if the battery is weak, even when it's fully charged. This can indicate the starter is wearing out and drawing too much power.
- Grinding Noise: A grinding sound when you try to start the car can mean the starter gear is not engaging properly with the engine's flywheel or is damaged. This can cause damage to the flywheel, leading to a more expensive repair.
- No Sound at All: If you turn the key and nothing happens, and the dashboard lights are on, the starter could be completely dead.
A Note on "Heat Soak"
Heat soak is the most common and frustrating starter problem for Riviera owners. It happens when the starter gets hot from the nearby exhaust manifold, increasing its internal electrical resistance. The symptom is a car that starts perfectly when cold but cranks slowly or not at all after it has warmed up. Once the starter cools down, it works again. This issue is very common with the original, large direct-drive starters on Buick's big V8 engines.
Choosing the Right New Aftermarket Starter
Original Delco-Remy starters were the factory standard. Today, true new OEM parts are generally not available. The choice is between a remanufactured original or a new aftermarket unit. While a quality remanufactured starter is a good option, a new aftermarket starter from a reputable brand can offer modern technology and reliability.
Aftermarket Brand Options
For your Riviera, several aftermarket brands are available, offering different benefits.
- Remy: Remy was once the original equipment manufacturer for GM as part of Delco-Remy. While now a separate company, they have a long history of making starters and are generally considered a reliable, on-par replacement for the original.
- BBB Industries: BBB Industries is a large remanufacturer and manufacturer of new starters that supplies many major auto parts stores. They are a common choice and offer a competitive option for replacement.
- High-Torque Mini-Starters: Brands like Powermaster offer modern, gear-reduction starters. These are smaller, lighter, and more powerful than the heavy original units. They are an excellent upgrade to permanently solve heat soak problems and are highly recommended for cars with high-compression engines or aftermarket headers.
Pro Tip: If you are experiencing heat soak, upgrading to a high-torque mini-starter is the most effective long-term solution. Some owners also add a starter heat shield for extra protection.
Cost of a New Buick Riviera Starter
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Starter | $106 - $198 |
| Remanufactured Starter | $70 - $200 |
| Used OEM Starter | $40 - $100 |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $120 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the Riviera starter myself?
Yes, this is a feasible DIY job for someone with basic mechanic's tools. The starter is usually held on by two bolts. The main challenges are safely getting under the car and dealing with the tight space around the exhaust. Disconnecting the battery is a critical first step for safety.
What is the difference between a direct-drive and a gear-reduction starter?
The original starter is a large, heavy direct-drive unit. Modern gear-reduction starters (or mini-starters) use internal gears to multiply torque. This allows them to be smaller, lighter, and more efficient, providing more cranking power with less battery draw, which is ideal for solving heat soak issues.
Are there any recalls for the 1964-1979 Buick Riviera starter?
No, a search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the starter motor on the 1964-1979 Buick Riviera. Any failures are typically due to age and wear.
Do I need to use shims when installing a new starter?
Maybe. Proper spacing between the starter gear and the flywheel is critical to prevent grinding. Some aftermarket starters come with a shim kit. You should check the clearance during installation and add shims if necessary to achieve the correct spacing.
Technical Specifications
The original starter for the Buick Riviera is a large, heavy, direct-drive unit. Aftermarket options include direct-fit replacements and high-torque, gear-reduction 'mini-starters'. These modern starters are lighter, more powerful, and often feature adjustable mounting blocks for better clearance with exhaust headers. Fitment can vary between engine families like the Nailhead (1964-66) and the later 430/455 V8s (1967-76), so always verify the part fits your specific year and engine.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.