Does the starter always connect to the starter ring?
 

I've got a 74 915 connected to an 86 3.2L and was going to use the starter I got out of my 905. But i noticed that the starter didn't connect with the starter gear ring -- the sprocket didn't reach far enough into the bell housing.

I ordered a used starter for the 86 and the same problem exists. So i started to wonder whether the starter sprocket extends when the starter is engaged and only connects with the ring gear then, since i figured you wouldn't want the starter to always be spinning with the crankshaft. Or am I just making things up now?

thanks

revelation!

Now, be nice, JW. This (and reading these posts) is how those of us who are not mechanics learn this stuff.:)

I think what they are trying to say is NO it is not always connected to the starter ring. If it was I don't think it would last too long. There is a solenoid that shoots the starter gear out to contact the starter ring on the flywheel.

hihi...well at least you have two starters now ;)

Yupp, the sprocket extends into ring gear when you operat the starter!

sorry, i can get a tad sarcastic at times.