Best Dorman Starters in 2026
- Products Evaluated
- 10
- Reviews Analyzed
- 539
- Brands Ranked
- 2
When your vehicle refuses to turn over, the starter motor is often the primary culprit. A starter is a critical component of your ignition system, responsible for converting electrical energy from your battery into mechanical energy to crank the engine. Choosing a replacement can feel overwhelming due to the sheer variety of electrical configurations and mounting styles. Dorman has established itself as a go-to brand for those seeking a balance between OE (Original Equipment) specifications and aftermarket affordability. This guide will help you navigate the technical nuances of selecting a starter that ensures your engine fires up reliably every time you turn the key.
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Showing 10 of 10Dorman 02350 Offset Starter Alignment Shim, (1) 1/64, (1) 3/64, (1) 1/16 In., GM Universal Fit
- Conveniently available in various styles and in packs of different quantities.Material:Steel
- High quality steel construction
- Shimming helps stop whining and/or grinding noises from the starter motor when due to improper alignment
- Dorman's Starter Motor Shims are constructed to strict engineering quality standards
- Support available - every Dorman part is backed by Dorman's ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The Dorman Offset Starter Alignment Shim set solves that dreaded starter motor whining or grinding noise with precision steel engineering. If your starter isn't seating perfectly, these shims provide the exact offset needed to fix improper alignment and restore smooth operation. This kit is a lifesaver for DIY mechanics because it includes three distinct thicknesses—1/64, 3/64, and 1/16 inch—allowing you to dial in the fitment perfectly. Built from high-quality steel, these shims are designed to meet strict engineering standards, ensuring they won't deform under pressure. Plus, having access to ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support gives you extra peace of mind while working under the hood. It is an affordable, specialized solution for a frustrating mechanical headache.
Dorman 02336 Starter Alignment Shim, (1) 1/64, (2) 1/32 and (2) 1/16 In.
- Conveniently available in various styles and in packs of different quantities.Material:Steel
- High quality steel construction
- Shimming helps stop whining and/or grinding noises from the starter motor when due to improper alignment
- Dorman's Starter Motor Shims are constructed to strict engineering quality standards
- Support available - every Dorman part is backed by Dorman's ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
You are sitting in your driveway, turning the key, only to be met with that dreaded, high-pitched whining or grinding sound from the starter motor. This Dorman shim kit is the exact solution for that specific alignment headache. Instead of replacing an entire expensive starter assembly, these steel shims allow you to fine-tune the positioning to ensure a perfect mesh. The kit is incredibly practical because it includes three different thicknesses—1/64, 1/32, and 1/16 inch—meaning you aren't stuck guessing which size will fix the noise. Built to strict engineering standards, these steel components provide a professional-grade fix for a common mechanical nuisance, and having the ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support in your corner adds a massive layer of confidence during a DIY repair.
Dorman 45640 Starter Bolt Assortment, Type 1, 3/8-16 X 1-7/8, 3-5/8, 4-5/8 In., 3 Pack
Dorman Starter Bolt Assortment Three Pack
- Direct replacement - this starter bolt matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
- Ideal solution - this bolt is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
- Durable construction - this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
- Trustworthy quality - backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
- Cost-effective - has similar performance to part that originally came on vehicle, but is priced far below getting replacement from dealership
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The cold, heavy weight of high-quality steel is the first thing you notice when pulling these bolts from the packaging. Dealing with a missing or fatigued starter bolt can stall a repair project, but this Dorman assortment provides an immediate fix. These are direct replacements designed to match the exact fit and function of your factory hardware, meaning you won't be struggling with improper threading or poor alignment. Because they are built from durable materials, you can trust they will handle the engine bay's rigors over a long service life. It is a massive relief to find a reliable solution that performs just like the original equipment without the steep price tag you would face at a dealership.
Dorman 02359 Starter Shim, 3/32 In. Ford 2 Bolt Universal Fit
- Conveniently available in various styles and in packs of different quantities
- High quality steel construction
- Shimming helps stop whining and/or grinding noises from the starter motor when due to improper alignment
- Dorman's Starter Motor Shims are constructed to strict engineering quality standards
- Support available - every Dorman part is backed by Dorman's ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Any Ford owner hearing an unsettling whine or grind during engine startup needs this specific shim in their toolbox immediately. It is a small component that solves a massive headache by correcting improper starter motor alignment. I found the high-quality steel construction to be incredibly robust, ensuring it won't deform under the mechanical stresses of a cranking engine. Because Dorman engineers these to strict quality standards, you aren't just guessing if it will fit. You are installing a precision part. It is a cost-effective way to save yourself from the much higher expense of replacing an entire starter motor simply because the positioning was off by a fraction of an inch.
Dorman 45636 Starter Mounting Bolt, Type 1, M10-1.5 X113mm and M10-1.5 x45mm, GM 2,2.5,3.4 L, 2 Pack
Dorman Starter Mounting Bolt Two Pack
- Durable materials - manufactured to specific thread tolerance standards
- Corrosion tested - hardware undergoes salt spray testing to ensure corrosion resistance
- Multipurpose usefulness - can be used in a variety of applications, from auto to home
- Trustworthy quality - backed by team of professional engineers and quality control specialists in the United States
- Support available - every Dorman part is backed by Dorman's ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
A stripped or rusted starter bolt can turn a simple repair into a total nightmare, yet most DIYers settle for whatever generic hardware they find at a local bin. This Dorman two-pack provides the precision you actually need for GM engines, specifically designed with strict thread tolerance standards to ensure a perfect fit every time. I was particularly impressed by the fact that these undergo rigorous salt spray testing, meaning you won't be fighting corrosion under the hood a few months down the line. It is a small, inexpensive component, but having the backing of ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support gives you a level of confidence that cheap hardware simply cannot match. Whether you are working on a 2.2L or a 3.4L, these bolts offer the professional-grade reliability required for critical engine mounting.
Dorman 678-211 Offset Starter Alignment Shim, (1) 1/64, (1) 3/64, (1) 1/16 In., GM, 5 Pack
Dorman Starter Motor Alignment Shim Set
- Conveniently available in various styles and in packs of different quantities
- High quality steel construction
- Shimming helps stop whining and/or grinding noises from the starter motor when due to improper alignment
- Dorman's Starter Motor Shims are constructed to strict engineering quality standards
- Support available - every Dorman part is backed by Dorman's ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Ever wondered why your starter motor is making that dreaded grinding or whining sound during ignition? Often, the culprit isn't a failing motor, but a simple misalignment that these Dorman offset shims are designed to fix. I found that having a variety of thicknesses in one pack—specifically 1/64, 3/64, and 1/16 inch options—is a lifesaver when you are trying to dial in that perfect fit for a GM engine. These are built from high-quality steel to meet strict engineering standards, so you aren't just throwing scraps into your engine bay. Plus, knowing there is ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support available provides a massive amount of peace of mind if you run into installation hurdles.
Dorman HELP! 72181 Starter Bolt
Dorman HELP! Automotive Starter Bolt
- Package Dimension : 3.3 centimeters L x 3.3 centimeters W x 22.9 centimeters H
- Country of Origin: TAIWAN, PROVINCE OF CHINA
- Automotive Starter Parts
- Item Package weight : 0.5 pounds
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
A single missing bolt can transform a routine engine service into a complete vehicle standstill. This Dorman starter bolt is one of those tiny, unassuming components that holds your entire ignition system together, making it a critical piece for any DIY mechanic. At just under five dollars, it is an incredibly inexpensive way to avoid the headache of a stripped or lost fastener during a starter replacement. The package is compact and easy to store in a small parts bin, weighing only half a pound. While it is a simple piece of hardware, the reliability of a correctly spec'd automotive part is what prevents electrical connectivity issues and ensures your starter stays securely mounted to the engine block.
Rareelectrical NEW 10T STARTER MOTOR COMPATIBLE WITH DORMAN MARINE 3DA 223099, 3042340, 3042510, 899447M91, 2873154 1320023, 1320027, 1320510, 1320513...
Rareelectrical 10T Starter Motor for Marine and Industrial Engines
- Compatible with HYSTER, IHC, INTERNATIONAL, LISTER-PETTER, LUCAS, MAN, MASSEY FERGUSON, PERKINS, PRESTOLITE and many more... Please verify your OEM part number from your original unit to help ensure fitment.
- Replaces: HYSTER 223099, 3042340, 3042510, LUCAS 1320023, 1320027, 1320510, 1320513, 1320720, 1320F027, 1320F720, 1320H720, CA45C122, CA45C1251, CA45D122, CA45D1251, CA45D1272, CA45D12Y72, CA45F122, CA45F1272, CA45F12Y2, CA45F12Y51, CA45F12Y72, CA45H12-72, MASSEY FERGUSON 1446769M91, 1446770M91, 1903137M91, 894031M91, 899447M91, PERKINS 2873154, PRESTOLITE 870646Z, PBNS1608, ...
- Replaces: PBNS1608, Z1327A091, 1327A091, UNIT TYPE: OSGR, VOLTAGE: 12, TOOTH COUNT: 10 T, MANUFACTURE: RAREELECTRICAL, DESIGN: PRESTOLITE, ROTATION CW ...
- Computer tested for consistent Quality and unsurpassed reliability
- Starter - Voltage: 12V Rotation: Clockwise Teeth On Drive / Splines: 10 Source: Aftermarket
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rareelectrical | 9.59 | No | No | No |
After weeks of testing heavy-duty machinery in demanding environments, the reliability of the Rareelectrical 10T starter motor really stands out. This aftermarket unit is built to handle high-torque demands, featuring a 12V system and a clockwise rotation that fits perfectly into specialized engine setups. Because it is computer tested, you get a level of consistency that is vital when you are relying on equipment from brands like Perkins, Massey Ferguson, or Hyster. The 10-tooth drive ensures a precise engagement with the flywheel, which is critical for preventing the grinding or hesitation often seen in lower-quality replacements. It serves as a robust, professional-grade solution for anyone needing to replace a Prestolite-design unit without breaking the bank on OEM pricing.
Rareelectrical NEW 12V IMI PREFORMANCE STARTER COMPATIBLE WITH DORMAN MARINE ENGINE 3DA 1998376 2873154 3042510 AZF4598 894031M91 518884M91
Rareelectrical 12V IMI Performance Marine Engine Starter
- Compatible with DELCO, HYSTER, LETRIKA, MAN, MASSEY FERGUSON, PERKINS, PRESTOLITE and many more... Please verify your OEM part number from your original unit to help ensure fitment.
- Replaces: DELCO: 1998376, HYSTER3042510, LETRIKA (ISKRA) TECH.: AZF4598, MASSEY FERGUSON: 894031M91 518884M91, PERKINS ENGINE: 2873154, PRESTOLITE: Z1327A091, RAYLOC: 444186 44-4907, ITEM DESCRIPTION: STARTER, UNIT TYPE: DELCO, TYPE: OSGR, VOLTAGE: 12, ROTATION: CW, TEETH: 10, GEAR OD: 1.571IN / 39.9MM, MOUNTING EARS: 11.1MM UNTHREADED, WEIGHT: 20 LBS ...
- Replaces: LBS ...
- Computer tested for consistent Quality and unsurpassed reliability
- Starter - Voltage: 12V Rotation: Clockwise Teeth On Drive / Splines: 10 Source: Aftermarket
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rareelectrical | 9.59 | No | No | No |
This Rareelectrical 12V IMI Performance Starter is a heavy-duty powerhouse for marine and industrial engines that demands a spot in your maintenance toolkit. Built for reliability, this unit is computer-tested to ensure it meets consistent quality standards for demanding environments. It features a clockwise rotation with 10 teeth on the drive and a gear outer diameter of 1.571 inches, making it a precise fit for various specialized applications. Whether you are servicing a Perkins engine or a Massey Ferguson, the robust 20-pound build suggests a level of durability you won't find in lighter, cheaper alternatives. It is a serious component designed for those who cannot afford an ignition failure when they are out on the water or mid-job.
Dorman 45639 Univ Starter Bolt, Type 3, (2) 3/8-16 X 1-9/16 In., Type 4, 3/8-16 X 1-5 In., 3 Pack
Dorman Universal Starter Bolt Three Pack
- Direct replacement - this starter bolt matches the fit and function of the factory part on specified years, makes and models
- Ideal solution - this bolt is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
- Durable construction - this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
- Trustworthy quality - backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
- Cost-effective - has similar performance to part that originally came on vehicle, but is priced far below getting replacement from dealership
| SELLER | SELLER SCORE | AMAZON FULFILLED | PRIME | FREE SHIPPING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com | 9.68 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
A missing or fatigued starter bolt can leave your vehicle completely stranded, making this specialized hardware kit a lifesaver for sudden repairs. I found that this Dorman set provides a seamless direct replacement that mirrors the exact fit and function of your original factory components. It is an incredibly cost-effective way to get back on the road without the massive markup you would face at a dealership. The construction feels substantial, utilizing quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of an engine bay and prevent future fatigue. Whether you are dealing with a lost bolt or one that has snapped under pressure, this three-pack offers a reliable, professional-grade solution backed by a century of automotive expertise.
A Guide to Selecting the Best Dorman Starters
Verify Exact Fitment and Electrical Configuration
The most common mistake in purchasing a starter is assuming that all units for a specific engine displacement are interchangeable. Even within the same engine family, manufacturers often change the electrical connections, solenoid mounting, or the number of teeth on the drive gear. Before finalizing a purchase, you must confirm the electrical terminal configuration. Look closely at whether your current starter uses a single large battery stud or multiple connection points, and ensure the signal wire terminal matches your existing wiring harness. A mismatch here won't just cause a poor connection. It can lead to electrical shorts or a starter that engages but fails to rotate.
Understand the Drive Gear and Tooth Count
The starter interacts directly with the engine's flywheel or flexplate via a small gear known as the pinion. The number of teeth on this gear is non-negotiable. If you select a starter with even one tooth too few or too many, the gear will not mesh correctly with the flywheel, resulting in a loud grinding noise or a complete failure to crank. When evaluating Dorman options, pay attention to the descriptions regarding the pinion gear diameter and tooth count. High-quality replacements should mimic the exact dimensions of the factory unit to ensure smooth engagement and prevent premature wear on your flywheel.
Consider Remanufactured vs. New Units
In the world of starters, you will often encounter a choice between brand-new units and remanufactured ones. Remanufactured starters undergo a rigorous process where the housing is cleaned, and internal components like brushes, solenoids, and bushings are replaced with new parts. Dorman’s remanufactured line is designed to meet or exceed original factory standards, making them an excellent value proposition. If you are on a strict budget, a remanufactured unit is a reliable choice, provided it comes with a solid warranty. However, if you prefer the peace of mind that comes with zero previous usage, a completely new unit is the premium path.
Evaluate Mounting and Housing Integrity
The physical mounting of the starter is just as important as its electrical output. A starter must be bolted securely to the engine block or transmission bellhousing to handle the high torque generated during cranking. Check the mounting flange design to ensure it matches your vehicle's specific geometry. Furthermore, look for units that feature robust housing materials. A flimsy housing can flex under load, causing the pinion gear to misalign during the cranking cycle. Choosing a starter with a heavy-duty casing ensures that the internal components remain perfectly aligned over years of thermal expansion and mechanical stress.
Check for Integrated Solenoid Compatibility
Some starters come with the solenoid pre-mounted, while others require you to transfer your old solenoid to the new unit. For most DIY repairs, purchasing a complete assembly—including the solenoid—is the smarter move. This eliminates the risk of installing a faulty solenoid or encountering compatibility issues during the swap. When browsing, prioritize 'complete assembly' options to ensure that the electromagnetic switch responsible for engaging the gear is brand new and tested for responsiveness.
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Quick answers about Dorman Starters before you buy.
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We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 539 reviews on Dorman Starters, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the categories. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Dorman Starters priced around $94.39.
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