9 tooth starter or 11 tooth starter?

[gas man]

I bought a new starter for my 120 mercruiser and it has a 11 tooth pinion. My old starter looks exactly like the new one but it has a 9 tooth pinion. Can I use the new one or do I need a 9 tooth?

 

[Condor1970]

I also just got a new 11t starter off Ebay for about $60. It works just fine.

 

[UncleWillie]

If the 9 wasn't straining to crank it over, You're OK!
The 11 tooth starter will spin the engine faster but have less torque.