I think my starter is going bad, Need opinions Options

[KELTY360]

Lately I've been getting a whirring metallic sound when I turn the ignition key. I switch it off, then try again and it starts right up. This doesn't seem to happen when the engine is cold - then it starts on the first turn. When I've been driving and then make a short stopover is when it seems to occur. The wiring at the starter and solenoid seems tight and solid; likewise the ground strap from the tranny to the body.

Also, I started to take the starter out, but after loosening the top bolt (in the engine compartment) it doesn't want to come all the way out. Is this a two man job with someone underneath to hold the nut from moving?

It's a '74 2.0 FI

[Tom]

Greg,
Kelly is probably right on with the heat causing a resistance to current flow problem. Disconnect your battery negative terminal ( this keeps you safe while messing with the starter) and then check the large yellow wire's lug at the starter ( I think it is the yellow one,) closely for dirt or corrosion. I usually start with the yellow because this is the wire that carries the current to the solenoid to operate the bendix. If it is really dirty and corroded that can cause the heat to affect current flow to the solenoid. Cut the lug off and replace it and see if that helps. While you are there check the other lugs also. I think sometimes even a new starter will not help if there is corrosion or dirt build up in and on the old electrical connections. If everything is OK down at the starter, then I would trace the yellow wire back to the relay board and check the 12 and 14 pin connectors there for dirt or corrosion. Hope this helps.
Tom