Flywheel ring gear wear...

[Jim Saraceno]

I just noticed that the ring gear is slightly worn. Does this look like enough wear to be a problem? If it is a problem, can I just turn the ring gear backwards so the good side is facing the starter? and.... Can I remove and re-install the ring gear myself with a brass drift pin and a hammer, use a shop press, or is that a job for the machine shop?

[Don Coatney]

Jim;

Requires heat to remove and install the ring gear. Check with an automotive machine shop. Should not cost much to do.

[40phil41]

I used an oxyacetylene torch to heat up the ring gear. Supported in the middle, the gear just fell off. I then rotated it 45 degrees so that the starter engages at a different spot. Then I heated it back up and slid it back on. Just takes time to get it heated more or less uniformally all around.

Phil Ellis

[greg g]

My guy flipped mine for 15 or 20 bucks. Mine was much worse than yours. You could have actually cut your hand on mine if not careful handling it.

[Normspeed]

Seen worse, but heck if it's out of the car, great time to have the shop flip the gear. Cheap insurance. When they wear to the point of being a problem, they can take the starter gear with them.