My 86 starter spins but won't engage motor

[ljinlusby]

I have been having problems with my starter on my 86 where it will spin but won't start the motor. Today, all it will do it spin and won't engage the starter motor. any ideas?

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
If the engine isnt turning over, then you will need another starter.
Allthebest, c4c5

[ljinlusby]

Yea, It sounds like the epinion gear is not retracting. I had a remanufactured one installed in June of 08. Do you suggest I go with a new one this time?
I even had the mechanic install a starter shield to help keep the heat away from the exhuast pipe!
Thanks for the reply

[ljinlusby]

You won't believe it but when I got under the car and started to take off the starter, the whole nose casing was broke in two. I was told that the last guy bolted it too tight and another said that it was from backfiring when it started which is has never done. I did notice that there weren't any shims between the motor and the block so I bought a pack of different sizes and when I put the new one on with a 1/32", it fit a lot better. I fired it up after making sure the battery was fully charged and it started right up.
thanks to all for your help!
L J