Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): john deere 318, year 1991, john deere 318, starter repairs

Question
Hi John, very kind of you to do this!  This 318 tractor year did have a starter problem and needed an after manufacture repair made to make the starter work properly, which I had installed. But, for some time now, when I turn the key, the starter will make a "gears grinding" sound. I stop immediately and retry until it does not happen and then it will start the tractor. It's an Onan engine, starter is clean, etc, but I have the tractor tore down now for spring cleaning and wonder if I should address this problem now. Your help is very much appreciated.  If I would have to replace the starter, are you able to tell me how to go about that as I remember someone saying something about needing to tilt the engine up???  I don't know, Thanks and God bless, Russ

Answer
 Hello Russ:

 Yes, I would Suggest Making the Starter Repairs at this Time. Why have a Good Engine and Trouble when needing to Start it. If this Problem has been Occurring for a While, I suggest you Replace the Starter with a New One. A Proper Rebuild May Involve More than a Set of Bushings and Brushes. You May Require a New Armature or Solenoid; if the Solenoid Type Starter. The Starter Removal Varies from Tractor to Tractor Depending on the Year Model. I Usually Unbolt and Disconnect Anything that Hinders the Removal of the Starter. On Some  Engines you had to Unbolt the Engine Mounts and Tilt the Engine to Have Clearance to Remove the Starter from the Engine. If you have Take Pictures of Process you should Not have Any Problems. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John