Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1967 thunderbird, flywheel, occassion

Question
Hi. My starter makes a loud grinding sound on occassion when I start the car. I assume I need a new starter. Until I replace it, will it do any damage to the engine in any way? I checed to see if I could replace it myself but there's one bolt that looks impossible to get to. Any advice? Thanks!

Answer
Hi Chris:
The grinding noise is most likely the gear on the starter rubbing against the flywheel, which one or both could be worn. Of it could be just mis-aligned. Check to make sure the gears are engaging properly and that the flywheel gears are not worn.