Starter Bendix

[specialdeluxe]

Greetings everyone, I'm in the midst of an engine swap for my 1947 Plymouth and I'm needing some help with my starter. Upon close inspection, it seems like the bendix/screw shaft isn't fully retracting. As you can see in the picture, that's as far down as it will go, maybe a quarter inch. Should it freely move all the way down the screw? The annoying thing is I can't see what's preventing it from moving. Thanks in advance! 

[knuckleharley]

Why not take it apart and see?

[specialdeluxe]

Sure, does anyone know if it's supposed to retract further? 

[Don Coatney]

This may or may not help. Best starter photo I have.

[specialdeluxe]

That is helpful. My first impression was it should have more movement. 

[Dartgame]

I noted the same thing about my 52's starter. I am not an expert on these, but I have seen where these bendix units do not seem to retract while messing with them on the bench. They do work properly when installed and are used to actually start the car. I am guessing it has to do with the bendix gear assembly getting thrown back once the motor starts...

Edited April 21, 2017 by Dartgame

[specialdeluxe]

Thanks, that makes sense, I haven't had any problems with it, but I'm just wanting to make sure.