Starter spins but doesn't engage

So I've been combing through the various forums trying to figure it out. I spins but does not engage the flywheel. Low voltage or is it shot?

 

Probly the bendix

 

Most likely a starter issue, rather than voltage. Even with low voltage, the starter should engage. A voltage meter would rule that one out pretty quickly.

Could be a sticky solenoid. Try lightly tapping the starter with a ball peen hammer and try starting it again.

 

I hit on it quite a bit last night with no avail

 

Do the tapping while someone is trying to start the truck.

Then take it to a starter / alternator / generator / electric motor shop and have them rebuild it for you.

It should be cheaper than a big box reman unit.

 

This is a good scenario for bench testing the starter prior to replacement.

Simply remove it and test the solenoid on the bench with a good battery, this eliminates the vehicles wiring and ensures the problem is the starter.

 

Sounds like a bad solenoid.

 

Did that as well. Had jumpers hooked to my battery from dads 3500 one ton dodge.
Every time I trued to start it it acted like it was drawing a lot of amperage as the dome light dimmed considerably.

It acted weird a few days ago as it made a rough clattering noise when I started the truck. Never did it again though. Left it in my cattle pasture till I get off work today and can go load it up on the car hauler and bring it home.

 

+1 bendix. Rebuild/buy reman or new

 

solenoid/plunger is messed up. Replace.

 

It spins but does not engage the teeth .

Broken starter drive or missing teeth