C 120 starter spins but does not engage

[Sailman 1,299]

Started my C-120 the other day to move it so I could get to implement. Started fine. Went to move it back later in the day and the starter spins but does not extend into the motor or engage with engine gear. Any suggestions? Starter rebuild needed? Any removal advice?

Thanks.

[953 nut 62,110]

Couple of thoughts,  

1)  voltage received by starter is too low to spin the starter fast enough to move the bendix gear. Loose or corroded battery cable terminals or battery needs charging.    

2)  the bendix gear or shaft could have son accumulated crud that is nor allowing it to move freely,

[Achto 29,792]

2 hours ago, Sailman said:

Went to move it back later in the day and the starter spins but does not extend into the motor

 

Rotate the starter gear so that it will move out with your hands. Once it is out lubricate the worm gear with dry graphite powder. (I do not suggest any type of liquid be used to lube it.) Most of the time this will cure the issue.

 

In a pinch I have used a pencil to lube the worm gear, pencil "lead" is mostly graphite & clay.

Edited 18 hours ago by Achto

[rmaynard 16,563]

I clean the Bendix gear and spiral shaft with brake cleaner. If that fixes it, then I lube with graphite or lock-lube.

The starter is easily removed by taking off the two 3/8" bolts into the block, and the wire to the lug.