1987 944 starter makes noise, doesn't turn over

[Marklmo]

Hi folks,
I'm a week into owning my first 944. So the starter made some grinding noises on 4 or 5 starts but now no longer turns the engine over. It just makes a whirring noise but doesn't seem to be engaging. I'm guessing a new starter is in my immediate future. I had just replaced the battery since it was over 5 years old so I'm thinking the starter wasn't prepared for more juice. Looking at the maintenance records it had been replaced 2 years ago which doesn't seem very long. From other posts it looks like solenoid or starter and check the teeth. Any other sage advice would be appreciated. They look pretty straight forward to replace.
Thanks,
Porsche noob

[fiily]

Originally Posted by Marklmo

Hi folks,
I'm a week into owning my first 944. So the starter made some grinding noises on 4 or 5 starts but now no longer turns the engine over. It just makes a whirring noise but doesn't seem to be engaging. I'm guessing a new starter is in my immediate future. I had just replaced the battery since it was over 5 years old so I'm thinking the starter wasn't prepared for more juice. Looking at the maintenance records it had been replaced 2 years ago which doesn't seem very long. From other posts it looks like solenoid or starter and check the teeth. Any other sage advice would be appreciated. They look pretty straight forward to replace.
Thanks,
Porsche noob

You on the right path, pull the starter and bench test it to verify the bendix engages the flywheel. Your local auto parts store can also bench test it for free if you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself.

Removal is straight forward, 2 bolts, and remove wires from starter and solenoid and your free.

[Marklmo]

Thanks for the advice! Im assuming I can just replace the solenoid if that's the issue.

[Marklmo]

The spinning sound leads me to believe it's the bendix gear.