Hi just a quick question about start motors. Would I be right in thinking once the start motor has started the engine the spindle used to contact the flywheel and deliver the drive will withdraw back into the start motor housing therefore disengaging with the fly wheel? (sorry abit hard to explain over the internet)

If so would I be right in thinking that my start motor isn't disengaging properly as when I start the car it sounds fine up until I let go of the key then it gives a fairly loud grinding sound! which is alot louder than the normal VW sneeze that iv heard on many other VW's

Thanks

Could be sticking, there is a solenoid that, when the key is turned to the start position, move the gear outwards and engages with the flywheel. The solenoid I think also switched power to the motor.

There is a hole/hearing inside the bell housing and the starters shaft fits into this and it usually gets gummed up with dirt etc. so the best way is I take it it and see what's going on.

Could be sticking, there is a solenoid that, when the key is turned to the start position, move the gear outwards and engages with the flywheel. The solenoid I think also switched power to the motor.

There is a hole/hearing inside the bell housing and the starters shaft fits into this and it usually gets gummed up with dirt etc. so the best way is I take it it and see what's going on.

x2

Sticking is likely, usually caused by the dust from the clutch. Things to try - clean and a tiny smear of grease on the end of the starter shaft and in it's locating bush (just taking the starter off and refitting can do it, only 1mm of adjustment in it but still), or replacing the solonoid if it's getting weak (they're available new, can use second hand ones but then might aswell take the used starter, obviously a new starter is also an option but shouldn't be needed).