Starter spins but not engaging.

[jerry_t409]

So recently I forgot to unplug my plug underneath the engine compartment and it rained the other day. After the rain i turned pump on to remove water and unplug drain plug. Now my starter needs a couple of taps for the solenoid to engage. All it's doing is spinning but i have to tap on it for it to engage into flywheel. Any idea on fixing this without replacing starter?

[suprasam]

It sounds like your bendix is sticking.....always can try a little WD on it. But you might be looking at a rebuild if it got soaked.

[Jetlink]

It sounds like your Bendix is sticking.....always can try a little WD on it. But you might be looking at a rebuild if it got soaked. It does indeed sound like the bendix gear is not engaging, Suprasam hit the nail on the head with possible remedies.

[michael hunter]

If it were mine I would remove it and take it apart . If you are not comfortable with rebuilding yourself take it to a re builder and have it done.

[lively]

in the elevator trade we use TRIFLOW and man! if it sticking ... that stuff will unstick it for good !!!... grainger carries it ...
or just use a bigger hammer :)

[Jetlink]

in the elevator trade we use TRIFLOW and man! if it sticking ... that stuff will unstick it for good !!!... grainger carries it ...
or just use a bigger hammer :) And if it breaks because of the hammer, it was meant to be broken and replaced right Lively?

[CornRickey]

Pull it and clean the bendix with a mild solvent then lube and be done.

[lively]

And if it breaks because of the hammer, it was meant to be broken and replaced right Lively?that is right my friend ! thats
my means of a good testing !! lol