Starter motor

[Larry & Norma]

Hi, When I operate the starter on my 280SL the car starts, no problem, but just after starting there is a sort of metallic 'ching' sound as what I believe to be the starter disengages.
1. Is this fixable i.e. maybe clean up the starter bendix. 2. Am I damaging the ring gear by continuing to use it like this?

[mdsalemi]

Is it possible that the "bendix" you have isn't OEM?  When my starter was rebuilt some years ago, the electric shop used a generic one, and while it bench tested just fine, it didn't work in situ; in fact, it didn't disengage at all.  The restorer took it out, cleaned it all up and tried again--same thing.  Finally he removed it once again, had a Bosch unit put on and all was well.

Food for thought in case you don't know the origins of what you have.

[abe280SL]

This is something that is worthwhile DIY.  Take it apart and clean and regrease all the moving parts.  Make sure the solenoid is working properly and able to withdraw back without problems.  The most likely problem is a solenoid that needs the piston/shaft part cleaned....or replaced altogether. I think I would be concerned if the starter drive shaft is not disengaging that you could do some costly damage.
abe

[Larry & Norma]

Thanks for replies, as it has been working ok I will assume that it is the correct Bosch starter Michael. Abe, it is disengaging but making the metallic 'ching' as it does. I will
try removing and cleaning/regreasing as you suggest. Added it to the list!