Starter issue 318 with P218G

[Gravel7]

Hello,
Getting ready to address a starter issue on my faithful 318. Before I dove into it, I wanted to see if I could get some opinions.

For years I've had to play with the key a bit to get it to turn over. Nothing major, maybe a 3 second deal. I think I may be in need of the starter improvement kit.....but that is not my major issue.

For the past 5, maybe 10 at most, times I have started the tractor it will turn over nice and strong and fire right up. But right when I let off the key there is a loud metal clanging sound that lasts for about one second. The type of sound that makes you cringe.

The tractor runs great, it is just loud banging metal sound for 1 sec after I let off the key.

The tractor has about 550 hours on it. Original starter.

I know I need to pull the engine to replace the starter, but am wondering if I should try to shoot some sort of lube at an area of the starter first. Be able to delay the repair to warmer weather?

Has anyone experienced this or have any ideas?

Thanks for any help and Happy Holidays!

 

[Gravel7]

Started the 318 today......Quite a racket when it turned over. Started though..got my snowblowing done. I called the local dealer and they quoted me $637.00 for a new starter or a generic for "about $400".

I just found one on Amazon with 3 positive reviews and a two year warranty for $109.00 and free shipping. I bought it. I will update this thread after I install it.