The starter pinion gear was not engaging with the fly wheel.(made loud noise, starter gear on ring gear) Removed starter motor(2 bolts) Placed in vice. Removed 3 screws from plate on pinion end.This is an original S/M.
Lifted gear out. Using brake cleaner and rags, thoroughly cleaned old caked grease till clean. Had purchased new pinion, & shaft($60) + new S/M. Thoroughly lithium(spray) greased inside and replaced new part & end plate 3 screws.(put some locktite on ea screw to inhibit vibrating lose)
Replaced starter(difficult job) you need a drift to insert into top bell housing hole to align bolt/lugs. Get bottom bolt in (not tight) then top bolt aligned & in. Tightened top & bottom bolts. Connect power wires.
Also recommend removing oil filter beforehand for more manoeuvre room (on removing & replacing S/M)
The above for me, was a difficult job. I'd purchased a new starter and
pinon gear,(direct from a Victorian eBay trader, but not through Ebay) in the end only needed $60 gear. New S/M is now a spare.
I was surprised how it worked.
I saved labour costs and have a new spare. Had a beer & relaxed
Cheers