Weak starter solenoid?

[dsiekman]

Lately I have had several instances where when I turn the key I get a "whirrrrr" but the engine is not turning over. It will do it a few times and then decide to catch. It seems intermittent and happens hot or cold. Is my solenoid going? It's a mid 80's 200 Blackmax.

 

[Chris1956]

A dirty bendix shaft will cause that. Dirt builds up on the bendix shaft, and keeps the gear from jumping up to engage the flywheel. The cure is to remove the nut and bendix gear and clean the bendix shaft. Now lightly oil the bendix shaft and install the gear and nut.