The starter on my 89 300 SE began making a two separate metallic clanking noises as it disengages from the flywheel


I dismantled the starter completely to pieces. It looks like new inside. I cleaned it up, lubricated it. I could not see any damage.
reinstalled it and no difference.

Could not spot any damage on the flywheel, although hard to see

Could the overrunning clutch of the 'bendix' be slightly too tight?

ONe can overruns the clutch manually, with starter in your hands

Should there be a rubber grommet to absorb the shock of the gear coming back from the flywheel?

Any other ideas??



Simon Deslandes
89 300 SE 120 000 miles