why doesn't my starter always engage?

[deckoffa]

My '74 1.8 has a recently rebuilt starter that refuses to engage at the first attempt about one in five times. Instead, it makes a hideous screeching noise, and I have to sit for a few seconds before making a second attempt to start the car, at which time it usually works. It's more embarrassing than inconvenient, but still....

I thought for a long time that my flywheel might be missing a few geer teeth, but now that I've removed the tranny for the first time in a few years, the flywheel looks fine. Any thoughts?

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Anthony

[roadtrp204]

The starter is not getting enough voltage or solenoid and/or bendix gea is hanging up. Votage problem could be due to one or a combination of the following: 1) starter worn, 2) battery, 3) battery cables, 4) tranny ground strap, 5) starting system circuit. If it is the solenoid or bendix, cleaning a regreasing would only prolong if not worn out. Have your starter check at a local parts store would provide the starting point.

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Chris
75 914 2.0L

[SteveStromberg]

Bad ground? try running a lead from battery negative post to engine block. Steve