need some help with 78 merc inline 6

[wwatson]

maybe someone out ther can help, I have been tearing the teeth off my drive gear on my starter:

 

[JB]

Re: need some help with 78 merc inline 6

Starter aligned with flywheel?

 

[CharlieB]

Re: need some help with 78 merc inline 6

Idle timing tro advanced?

Partly seized cyl/bearing/bent rod, causing a very 'stiff' spot during revolution of the motor.

Remove the spark plugs and turn the motor over by hand to feel for any stiffness anywhere.

Connect a spark tester and timing light and check idle timing setting.