VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Electrical - 6 volt Starter help

Hello All,
I have taken the starter from my '51 apart and am trying to address an issue that I think I have resolved. There is a fabric washer on the end of the commutator called out in the parts catalog as "WASHER, commutator end, leather" with dimensions. The part number is 818265. First, what does it do (why is it there)? Second can it be made out of another material like vinyl, rubber, etc. The thickness is listed at 1/8"
but the old one which kind of disintegrated on removal was much thinner. Does it need to be 1/8" thick?
As always, any help is greatly appreciated.
Jeff

The leater washer was used for many years including 12 volt starters. With a little digging you should beable to find a new one.. It was all ways replaced n a starter verhaul.

Needs to be 1/8 ". A leather 'braking' washer that slows the starter armature down after use.

Thanks to both for your replies. I did find several for sale on Amazon and eBay so getting one won't be difficult. I just thought that I could make one from supplies I have on hand but from your replies it needs to be as specified in the parts book. I have an old time shop near me that rebuilds starters and generators and I might stop by on Monday and see if they will sell me one.
Thanks again.
Jeff

I have cleaned the brushes and checked continuity as per the Chevrolet shop manual and have another question: after I get the new thrust washer for the commutator end, how do you hold the brushes out so the brush holder/end cap can be installed? I know many motors have holes in the end cap for paper clips or nails to hold the brushes back. This doesn't.
Jeff