vw beetle starter motor problems

[chrisgrant]

hi i have a 1200 vw beetle just been restored. the problem with the starter is sometimes when u turn the key the starter fires but does not engage with the flywheel the bush in the gearbox looks ok and the teeth on the gearwheel look fine no wear on them. wondered if it could be a fault with the starter motor itself .its supposed to have been overhauled someone put a new solenoid on it for me .can anyone help.dont want to pull engine back out for a third time

[rdv]

The solenoid operating rod needs to be adjusted to a specific length beore fitting on a beetlle starter, failing this make sure the starter drive gear runs freely on the shaft

[woodchopper]

I would hazard a guess that it is dirt/muck on the shaft of the stater motor stopping it from engaging -have come across this before - the starter will have to come out again and be repaired - whatever you do, do not put oil on the shaft that the pinion slides along - it will only attract more dust/dirt causing it to stick again.
If you cannot service it yourself take oit to an auto-electrician and get them to repair it and make sure it is bench tested before going back in.

[Blueflame]

You don't need to pull the engine out to remove the starter motor !