My 1979 450 SLC occasionally would make a grinding noise when attempting to start the car which sounded like the drive gear on the starter was not engaging the flywheel but merely grinding against it. After several tries, it would start perfectly. I removed and replaced the starter and starter drive (called a Bendix drive on U S cars, not sure what Mercedes calls it) and the problem is still there. Often it will start and engage perfectly on the first try. Other times it will grind and require several grinding attempts before the starter engages properly and turns the engine over as it should.
I have owned the car for 14 years and this has only happened in the last year or so.
Any suggestions on what could be the cause?
Is the "reach" or extension of the starter drive gear adjustable? (How far the starter gear slides forward when activated) In other words, is it not contacting the flywheel teeth or going beyond them?
Can the flywheel teeth be inspected from underneath the car to determine if there is excessive wear or a broken tooth on the flywheel gear teeth?
Thank you in advance for any suggestions or thoughts.
Kurt