Framall 450 12v Starter

I have a 12v Starter Model Delco Remy 1108178 7M2
I can't seem to find much info on it. The Bendix is a sealed system. Most pictures I see are of the kind that has the thick big spring and smaller spring on the top next to the Teeth. I have one that has the teeth then a solid metal housing about 3in long, kinda looks like a Bell shape.

My question is, the starter is getting stuck when it engages onto the flywheel. It does not sem to have enough power to turn the flywheel to start the engine. not sure if it is just the cold ~20deg on average around here. So.... Can I clean the starter with BREAK CLEANER? I've read some of the fourms and people are saying do not oil it because it will get even dirtier after a few times. Can I spray the entire thing or do I need to be careful around any of the components.

Thanks for any input.
Tony Hardy

If the battery is good, and cables are at least O gauge, the starter should spin it well. Checking the Starter motor for amp draw, It might need bushings. The drive is the new styly, and is usually much better. JimN

If you've got a good battery and good cables and the starter drive is dirty, go ahead and clean it. I wouldn't be afraid to lubricate it to get the tractor going. You won't get much dust accumulation in the winter so a little lubricant is OK. If it gums up later you'll have to take it out and clean it again. It won't gum up after a "few times" even in dusty weather. I always use a LITTLE light lubricant on starter drives and do not have problems with them getting dirty. More is not always better.

If you are using brake cleaner it can be real flammable and the starter arcs naturally so don't put it together wet and start a fire. The cleaner evaporates slowly in cold weather.

If the starter drive is retracting after you try to start it is probably a battery/cable/switch/brush/armature problem. If it does not retract but stays stuck in the flywheel you probably need a new starter drive and possibly a new ring gear. I've never actually had to turn a ring gear around however, replacing the starter drive has always fixed the stuck starter problem for me. Some folks need to replace the ring gear regardless but that may not be necessary.

Tony, it is also possible the ring gear on the flywheel is worn enough that the pinion gear is getting wedged in. Then it won't turn.