Starter Clutch Question

[Mental_Lockdown]

I searched for an answer, but no other post could answer this question. Once the starter clutch is completely removed and in your hand, there are bearings on each end, and a gear in the middle. Is the gear supposed to move along the length of the shaft (bearing to bearing) smoothly or is it not supposed to move at all? The reason I ask is that the rotation is correct in which it rotates freely one way, but locks in the other. I know that is how they operate, but I am trying to find a "smoking gun" for my starter issues and believe this is what is causing my problem.

[Mental_Lockdown]

Upon further investigation found the inboard lock tab on the locking plate (P/N 33126-94) had sheared completely off. Cheap replacement from HD at $1 plus an additional $5 for a new thrust washer (P/N 31430-94). Going back together with the whole thing and hopefully will be back on the road by Friday evening.

[Mental_Lockdown]

Everything is back together and the problem is solved. It was the starter clutch. The binding prevented the last 1/4" of travel and wouldn't allow the pinion gear to reach the ring. Fixed now, the broken locktab probably occured during removal.

[Locodave]

Hi, Thanks for replying on what you found. Helps others with the same prob. Dave