Craftsman LT2000 metal starter gear snapped in half.
I have a Craftsman LT2000 18hp OHV. Went to start it up and when the starter gear engaged the fly wheel it made a odd noise and the starter gear snapped off the rod. Upon inspection discovered the starter motor was missing a mounting bolt and was loose. Thought the gear had engaged the fly wheel at a bad angle and caused the break. I replaced the gear and secured the starter motor. When I cranked it up the starter gear broke off the rod again!
I assume something else is wrong. Any suggestions before I install a new starter motor?