340 starter not disengaging properly

When starting my faithful F reg 340 (1400cc) from cold the starter does does not disengage properly for a couple of seconds after it should, and it makes an unpleasant noise. I recently fitted a replacement starter from a breaker and that cured it. But only for about 10 days, then it was back to the noise every time, unless she was already warmed up. When I had the starter out I checked the flywheel and could not detect any noticeable amount of play. Mileage is under 70k, with full Volvo service history. Any suggestions please?

Unlucky with the secondhand replacement.

It wouldn't be the first time I bought a secondhand part and found it to be in worse condition than the one I replaced!

New starters are about £70

I'm not entirely sure that the fault lies with the starter, though it may do. It still works satisfactorily and when I stripped it down and cleaned up the commutator and checked the brushes it looked in good order, but it is possible that the return spring in the solenoid is getting tired. I wondered if teeth getting worn and sticking in the flywheel may be a Volvo problem?

[migrator]

I have not had this problem in any of the Volvos that I have owned and the present one is a 360.

It is possible that the Bendix gear return spring is too weak to throw the starter cog wheel back to its idle position once the engine (flywheel) is turning fast enough to release the pressure on the starter cog.

[srtames]

Alan, it may be the engine is not firing on 4 cylinders when it starts which causes the noise possibly from the clutch release fork/bearing.
If my car has been standing 3 days , I augment the weak choke by jabbing the throttle twice before turning the key. The engine starts much quicker and smoother throwing out the starter pinion faster.

Steve