Bob And: follow up to 656 starter fix

So I'm happy to hear my suggestion helped you diagnose the problem with your starter. But if I read and understand your reply correctly you have made a "band aid" fix. If the snap ring is not in its groove with a outer lock collar around it for the starter drive to rest against you are creating another problem by placing washers against the end frame bushing to contain the starter drive. The drive is driven by spiral splines we'll call them. The twisting torque of the drive turning the engine now results in a lateral force of the armature on the back bushing plate of the starter and try's to force iitself out the back end of the starter. This creates pressure on the fiber washer against the armature causing accelerated wear. Please google "images of delco starter drives" in one of those break down images you will be able to see the 3 pieces that make up the proper retaining system for the drive. I'm not saying it will not work with the fix you made. I'm just saying it is not working as designed now. Take the starter to a local starter shop they should be able to fix it correctly or supply you with the lock ring parts. I just started this in a new thread because I was not sure you would view the old thread any more because you found a solution.
Link to original post