Hey everyone, been having an issue with my starter grinding on start up. Tried to replace the starter a while back but didn't help. Almost like it isn't engaging with the flywheel properly. Any tips? Do I need to shim the starter? 85 GSL-SE with 13b and original trans. Believe the car has a lightweight flywheel from racing beat as well.

edit: car will start after a couple flicks of the key. Just have to find the sweet spot where the starter will engage the flywheel.

 

Commonly when the starter is grinding on engagement, there is an issue with the flywheel's ring gear. Commonly chipped or worn teeth on the ring gear can cause the grinding.

It may be worth removing the starter and having someone slowly rotate the engine by hand while you inspect the ring gear through the opening in the bellhousing where the starter bolts. You will want to mark your starting point with a marker or paint pen and inspect the ring gear as the flywheel rotates 360 degrees.

 

That seems very probable. I'll take a look. Thanks!

 

Depending on which light flywheel you might have, check for the attachment bolts which Racing Beat used on their replacement ring gear setup. A replacement still has to be heated, and the flywheel cooled, during install - but it's far cheaper than buying a new light flywheel.