'78 Merc 1400 starter motor problem

[monk-monk]

I recently acquired a '78 Merc 1400 L6 and want to check compression. When i put power to the starter motor, it spins but the pinion drive gear will not jump up and grab the flywheel, the pinion drive gear is a new one, whats the problem and how to correct it?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: '78 Merc 1400 starter motor problem

Monk-monk, Those starters have a permanent magnet field. They will spin backwards if you connect them backwards, and the bendix will not travel up to hit the flywheel. Make sure the top cable to the starter is connected to the cowling support. it supplies ground. Make sure the bottom cable gets +12VDC. Make sure the battery is connected properly.

If that stuff is OK, move the bendix gear by hand and see that it is not binding. A bit of oil is a good idea.