Classic/Antique Car Repair: Bendix Bolt in housing

Question

My car   Hey Jack...love your videos!  I wrote you about a year ago looking for first time buyer tips....I ended up with a '29 Fordor Leatherback with dual sidemounts...love it!    Any ways...first repair.  One of the bolts sheared off the Bendix and I assume is laying in the bottom of the fly wheel housing.  I tried fishing a magnet and did retrieve the washer but not the bolt.  Others suggest putting a magnet on the fly wheel and turning with the crank slowly to grab the magnet?  I am a little nervous to do this.  Thoughts?   I asssume it must come out...if its in there....so it does not cause problems down the road?

Answer
The magnet on the flywheel is a good idea.  Take the plugs out and turn it slowly.  If it binds up, stop and go the other way.  Put it in third and push backwards.  I don't think you will hurt anything if you go easy.  You could try dropping the radius ball and stick your finger in to feel what is in there.  Maybe some sticky tape on the end of a flexible rod????  Don't worry, you will get it out.  Tie a string on the magnet when you do the flywheel trick.  You don't want to get the magnet stuck in there.  Just go easy.  Good luck and let me know how you make out.  jack