I have a problem with my '87 560SEL that is slowly getting worse. Occasionally, instead of immediately engaging the ring gear and turning the engine, the starter spins freely making a grinding or gnashing sound. I'm assuming that the problem is that the pinion is not popping out far enough. The starter appears to be tightly and correctly mounted.

Is it likely that I need to replace the entire starter or can I just replace solenoid (starter drive??)?

Thanks
jlc

__________________
Jeff

'87 560SEL 267K (177K on motor) Blue/Blue
'98 Buick LeSebre 60K (wife's car)
'56 Imperial Sedan 124K
Past Cars:
'67 Dodge Monaco 130K (Sold)
'87 Chrysler 5th Ave 245K and going strong (sold)
'73 Plymouth Satillite 175K (sold)
'96 Chrysler LHS 80K (totaled)