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I finally got my truck started after 6 years. The first 10 times I started it it started just fine. I now have a problem. Almost every time I start it I have to grab hold of the flywheel and turn it a couple of inches by hand to get the starter engaged. If I don't turm the flywheel you kind of hear a clunck. Any ideas? Once I turn the flywheel it fires right up and runs fine.

Hy dad6timz, most engines come to rest at only two or three places flywheel teeth wise, perhaps some of your flywheel ring gear teeth are worn and not allowing proper engagement with the starter drive gear, inspect and see if that's the case, hope that helps.

dad6timz,

I have heard that an engine will come to rest in two places consistently. This would mean the ring gear would see the most amount of wear in these same two places.

Your rig has a stomp starter, so the Bendix is actuated by "foot". I think if it were a ring gear issue, things would spin and grind.

My first thought would be to check the linkage to the starter switch AND the starter switch.

If the dust cover is off the flywheel (?), you might turn it and inspect the ring gear...be sure the key is off.

You should be able to feel a difference in your foot when you mash the starter between a 'clunk' and a successful start.

Do some more investigation...watch your fingers!

Stuart

Have somebody rap on your starter when it's acting up as you're trying to engage it. Sounds like a dead spot in your starter,
Scott

Thanks for the info. I will look into all of these things and see what I can find out. Again thanks you guys are the best!