rocks in the blender
 

The starter on my 74 2.0 has begun making a GOD-AWFUL grinding crunching noise while cranking. It starts OK, although it makes my skin crawl to hear it. Once started, the engine runs ok with no other noise. Anyone who cares to venture a guess? I am right in the midst of trying to perform complete diagnosis of the engine, FI, tuning prior to pulling the drivetrain out for much awaited winter cleaning and maintenance, but now I can't bear, and don't dare to use the starter to perform vacuum and compression tests, but I don't want to teardown the engine if I don't need to. Catch 22, eh?! HELP

I'd look to see if the starter is loose in its mounting. It can be remove fairly easily. One bolt from under the car, one bolt from inside the engine bay.

Please, disconnect the battery first. BTDT I learned the priciples of +12 volt welding.

BTDT? thats one I havn't heard yet.

Been There Done That-BTDT-

Some practioners also include GTTSTPI - Got the tee shirt to prove it..

Check the bendix gear and flywheel it might be worn out and slipping, it happend to me
Doug