ZR1Rob

When the key is turned to start, there's a short hesitation and the starter is making a sound like its not engaging the flywheel. Then I turn the key again to start and the engine will start normally. It doesnt happen every time, but several times a week. Has anyone experienced such a problem and what does it indicate?

Goldcylon

A future failed starter. Sounds like the internals are start to go. Sorry bro a plenum pull is about to happen. While you are there you might want to think about new wires, coils etc while you are there.

ZR1Rob

plenum pulls are annoying. Has this happened to you? Sure seems like it is the starter, but maybe the cable connections are bad or oxidized? No way to be sure, but maybe the delay that I get when turning the key to start is an indication of that?

Goldcylon

Anything is possible but you mentioned a "zinging" noise which is a classic future starter failure symptom.

A26B

I agree with Goldcylon.
Zinging is the starter spinning over but starter gear not engaging the flywheel gear. The starter gear has to extend to engage the gears. Sounds like it's not extending.

FU

Don't wait long to do the starter or the flywheel gear will be next.

VetteMed

I have 2 spare starters needing rebuild if you want to avoid downtime on the car...

DRM500RUBYZR-1

While it COULD be a battery or connection issue, it sounds exactly like a soon to fail starter drive.
Generally if there is enough current to make the starter work the next time, that would seem to indicate a mehcanical issue with the engagment of the starter gear, which indeed goes back to a failing starter drive or spring.
It's best if the starter engages the flywheel first, then begins to spin.
Sounds like yours is trying a difft. approach.
Here is a little known scientific fact.
It will usually work fine until the rainiest, coldest, most in-opurtune time, and then it will fail completely, leaving you stranded.
Don't wait too long!

Marty
1FUNZR1

Goldcylon

Correct. And Frank is correct as well