Starter motor spins but does not engage

[Michael4]

My starter motor spins but does not engage on first try when stone cold. Second attempt all OK. At all other times it is fine, engages first time and turns the engine well.

Am I right in assuming the helical on the bendix gear is dirty (if this is indeed what is in there)?

Looks original from the outside, 125k miles...so will it get better with more use or worse?

[bigherb]

Yes, it often just the Bendix sticking usually from accumulated clutch dust stopping is riding along the helix. You can pull the Bendix out against the spring and squirt WD40 onto the helix which flushes out the dust and lubricates it.

[Michael4]

Thanks for confirming my suspicions, I better face up to getting under there!

[george2490]

Those pics should be banned!!! Too clean.

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[R0B]

So you like dirty pics do you?

[Oldiebut goodie]

Here's one for him.

[ajsimmo]

"What ewe looking at?"

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[R0B]

No need to look so sheepish.