2002 Sportster LE Starting issue, bad grinding!

[Yota]

When i hit the start button it just makes a godawful grind noise,! Is there anyway this could be a electrical/ battery problem, or is it inevitable to start to dig into the start assembly! I'm afraid to even begin.....

 

[kustomkarl]

It sounds like the starter... Pull the starter and look at the teeth on the end.

Karl

 

[Yota]

It sounds like the starter... Pull the starter and look at the teeth on the end.

Karl

I pulled the starter and it is in perfect shape, tested it as well and its fine!
What's next?

 

[kustomkarl]

On that model I forget if the starter has the Bendix with teeth on the end of the starter or it is in the case. What do the teeth look like on the end? was it real dirty? If the teeth are on the inside of the magneto cover you will have to remove the cover and see the condition of teeth, and flywheel mating teeth.
Keep me posted.

Karl