Hi was wondering where to buy a good starter for a 12 valve cummins. Mine is beginning to make grinding noise while cranking. Are the starters from Advance Auto any good. THANKS!

I bought mine from a local parts store , not a chain like Vatozone , but it works fine , don't remember the rebuilders name ?

I need a new one for my 93, it quit turning over, now I give it a whack with a hammer and it starts, I pulled the cover off the starter and the contacts and plunger look new, so I guess something else is wrong with it.

I got one reasonable from E-Bay RV sounds like brushes and armature in yours

Best to get a new Denso if you want to replace starter. These trucks came with a very good starter and it's usually brushes or solenoid contacts that go bad. Just put solenoid contacts in my 12 valve and it starts much quicker than before. My symptoms were slow engine turn - like a dead battery but the solenoid contacts corrected the problem. Google "LarryB's" much info on cummins starting problems.

My original started lasted 265,000 miles. I was quite pleased.
Instead of doing a crappy parts store rebuild, I dropped mine at a reputable local shop and had them rebuild it. It was about the same price and I don't have to worry about it.
I don't skimp when it comes to mechanical parts on my truck. It may not be pretty but it's my most important vehicle. It gets the good stuff.