Mercruise 2002 3.0L Starter issue

[bajaunderground]

Engine Serial Number: OM322003

My buddy's 2002 3.0L 4 cyl had bolts break and drop his starter, we repairs the bolts. Now the starter seems to hit the flywheel and grind? We've tried shims, other than that, there's no real adjustment to be made? Any thoughts? He's rotated the flywheel, it spins as it should, he's tried 2 different starters, both are doing the same thing?

Any suggestions as to why? or How to fix?

Thanks!!!!

 

[alldodge]

Might be damaged to the flywheel, but right now since trying two starters, I would need to pull the motor and remove the bell housing. This way you can see how the starter connects to the flywheel

 

[bajaunderground]

Thanks AD...trying to avoid that at this point. I know it's tough to tell while in boat, being that we're all leaving for a week at the lake on Thursday morning...that's a tall order with all we have to do...I suspect you're correct at this point...was just curious if anyone else had this issue and how it was dealt with?