951 Starter drive

[Boyd12]

Dumb question. I have a 951 engine out of the hull. I cranked it over with the starter a few times and it cranks well, but I noticed that if, after cranking it, I turn the crankshaft counter-clockwise I hear a "clink". What it is doing is when I crank it the starter drive gear is still extended and engaged with the flywheel. It isnt until I turn the crank, then it retracts. Is this correct?

 

[mikidymac]

Yes it’s the bendix. It’s like a one way clutch so once the engine fires and starts spinning faster from combustion it will disengage.

 

[etemplet]

I have reservations about the bearing for the bendix that is located inside the engine casing. I like to check the condition and grease it. I don't know how often those bearings fail but they can take the casing with them.