Have a 16hp B&S single cyl cast iron motor that continues destroying the starter gear. Motor has aluminum ring gear and plastic/fiber starter gear. After several starts (3 to 10) it destroys the teeth on the starter gear. I'v checked with my dealer and the parts are correct #s. The ring gear was also replced but still made no difference. Also checked the starter alignment and everything there is fine.
Thanks for any help,
Danny

What about the use of shims? Did the starter have any to begin with?

There were no shims orhinally and I have checked the alignment and the gears mesh with a good bite and no binding the whole way around the ring gear.Thanks

Is there excessive sideways "play" of the starter shaft?