My '99 has an issue when starting. Whenever I turn the key, one of 3 things happens:

1. It just seems to wind like the bendix isn't kicking out.
2. It spins then sorta grinds.
3. It starts right up.

I was told by a 'mechanic' that it could be worn spots on the flywheel. He said, and please tell me if this is true because it's very interesting, that, "When you turn the car off, the flywheel always stops in 1 of 4 places in regards to the starter location". This would mean that upon cranking the starter, it's always initially engaging in only one of four spots on the flywheel, causing the teeth to wear. Another guy told me this is poppycock, and I probably just need a new starter. Any input is appreciated.

 

The first guy was right. Inspect your flywheel before throwing a new starter at it.

 

try turnning the engine about a 1/4 turn manually, see if it makes a difference. Had the same problem on a v-8. they stop in the same spot every time.

 

Stops in the same spot always, or one of 4 based on which stroke it's in when shut down?

How do I turn it manually? (I have limited tools)

 

Sounds more like Bendix that is staying in, but occasionally kicks out to late and starts grinding, and sometimes works fine. But you better pull the cover and check it. I had the teeth chewed off on my first car. Someone installed a shim, most likely because it was in the box when they replaced it. If you bought the vehicle used recently, you may want to check for that as well. Just in case that is the cause of the whole problem.

 

With the starter removed, you can check the run-out on the flex plate ring gear with a magnetic base dial indicator as someone turns the motor over using a socket & breaker bar on the balancer retaining bolt in the center/front of the crank.

I too think the problem is with the bendix on the starter.

 

I'd agree about the Bendix, and no matter what he'll have the opportunity to look at it when the starter comes out. However, if the Bendix is chewed up, there's a decent chance that there's going to be flywheel damage. I'd personally hate to go through all that just to have the problem repeat itself. Give that ring gear a good look-see.