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When I changed from 6 volt to 12 volt I kept the 6 volt starter. I now have several teeth on the flywheel missing. Is this from the starter engaging the flywheel at a higher speed? I will have to replace the flywheel and I am trying to find a vendor who carries this type. Any Help? Should I replace the starter and go to a 12 volt?

Just applying 12V to a 6V starter will not do that. Did you install a 12V engine when you changed to 12V? If so you will need a 12V starter to go with it. A 12V fly wheel has more and smaller teeth than a 6V.

Highly unlikely that the starter operating voltage had anything to do with the damaged flywheel. The starter drive should be fully engaged with the ring gear teeth on the flywheel before the starter begins spinning (either at high speed or low speed). If the starter motor is misaligned with the flywheel (loose bolts or improperly shimmed)then tooth damage can easily occur.
I have no idea what type engine you have? 216 I am guessing?
Make sure that the starter drive is the correct match for your ring gear (number of teeth per inch)the 235 and 216 starter drives are different and not inter changable even though the starter will mount up to the bell housing.
6 to 12 preference? makes little to no difference, starters are not that picky about volts, but draw a high amperage.

Thanks I have a 235 that is the original. This is the starter that has been in it for the last 10 years. The starter has not been removed or replaced. Could the starter drive be worn and need to be replaced?

Yes, and so can the bushings that support the starter motor armature shaft in the starter motor housing on each end (and the starter drive on the front end) allowing a wobble in the drive. I would inspect the starter bushings and definitely replace the starter drive when you replace the flywheel. Generally if the teeth on one get wore the worn component will eat away at the other rather quickly. New teeth on both would be a smart move and little expense.

Are the ring gear teeth missing or just chewed up a little ? If they are just chewed up,have a machine shop flip the ring gear.

Tim

I havent taken the starter out yet but I will when I get all the parts. I have a new drive unit so I need to find a place to get a flywheel the proper size. I have looked at only a small part of the flywheel so I will check it again and see what the teeth look like. I never heard of flipping it but it sounds like another way to go.
Does anyone have an Idea of where to find a proper flywheel?