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The problem is it stays engaged after the engine fires, like it has a weak bendix spring. If I shut the key off and immediatly put it back to run the engine stays running and the starter disengages. It does not happen every time but most of the time. I have shimmed and staggered shim but to no avail. Anyone have an issue with these starters doing this?
Since you've tried shimming, try turning the key on but use a remote start switch or a old screw driver) to start it. That would eliminate a sticking ignition switch mechanism (on the column under dash). I know you'll have it in neutral if it's a stick. You could also bench test it with some jumper cables and see if it snaps back properly.
From: Las Vegas - Just stop perpetuating myths please.
U didn't read the instructions.
Most starters including mini starters have instructions on shimming for correct clearance. Mine used 0.015" between the teeth which is close to a paper clip wire size. I needed 0.015" between the teeth and more like 0.030" between gear and flywheel when retracted.
If u want to play with just the bendix gear and not turn the starter u can just disconnect the large (black) wire that runs between the solenoid and the starter motor case. Make sure u tape any loose ends. Then u can pop the solenoid and move the solenoid in and out all day to adj. Also i found that a small 6 amp batt charger will push out the solenoid so i don't have to bother with the key - just connect the batt charger neg to where the starter motor was connected and touch the igition wire screw with the batt charger pos lead.
It was not the ignition switch. It is just staying engaged after release of the ignition. I'll have to pull it back out.
I'm sure you already know this but in case you don't, the ignition switch actuates a rod that actuates a spring loaded switch on the steering column that sends an electrical signal to the solenoid. If the switch on the column is hanging for some reason (broken spring or gummed up), the electrical signal would still be sending a signal to the starter solenoid. This is the point I was trying to make.
The starter drive gear may be hanging up on the shaft and not sliding back away from the flywheel. Try to put some grease on the shaft and work the drive gear back and forth a few times to loosen it up.
Hopped in it today and 3 times starting it no problem. Its got a mind of its own. Taking it in for an alignment tomorrow so I'll be starting it a bunch of times. See what happens.