starter drive gear question

[TVZ]

I went to start my 1971-era Evinrude TwinSki 40 (Model 40153B) this afternoon, but there was just a click and nothing more. Upon looking, I saw that the gear that the starter spins to engage the big gear on top of the motor, was jammed in with the big gear it engages (see photo of the gears after I broke them loose). I'm guessing (hoping) that it's just because the starter drive gear is worn, and can be fixed by replacing it. Can you tell by looking at my picture?
(I was able to fix it by tapping down on that gear by hammering a bolt against the top of it.)

 

[lindy46]

Take starter off, clean the bendix and lightly lubricate with 3-in-1 oil. The bendix should move freely up and down as you rotate it by hand. Then try it and see if it works.

 

[jimmbo]

Good Battery, good cables, clean connections? A starter not getting enough power can raise the bendix then stop

 

[TVZ]

The bendix seems to move quite freely, and power does not seem to be an issue. It was really a matter of the gears jamming together--tooth against tooth. That's why I wondered if the gear is worn down too much. Looking at the picture, do you think that's it? (I don't know just how a newer gear would look--longer teeth?

 

[oldboat1]

Based on the picture, the bendix gear needs to be replaced imo. It's possible you have the wrong starter or the wrong bracket (colors appear different). If the fit wasn't right, the gear could be damaged. The bracket could be loose -- usually a bolt from the front. Maybe that partially hidden bolt is missing or loose.

If, however, an undamaged gear meshes properly (snaps up into place properly), you may have other problems if the gear seems to jam or the starter won't turn the flywheel.

If you take off the recoil starter, can you turn the flywheel quite easily by hand?