starter problems then clutch

They sometime bounce against the flywheel pressure plate and ricochet around. Parts can NOT get caught in flywheel starter ringgear 'cuz its deepset in its own special groove.

And yes, there's supposted to be danglin' cotter keys from the tranny drip holes. Ford's hi-tech automatic greesy dirt drain cleaner.

Would you believe ringgear inspection is best by "finger"? You doubt? Rub the BACKSIDE of the starter ringgear thru the tranny hole with finger for "sharpies". No BLOOD, no sharpies. Yes, the backside of the teeth are supposed to be "slanted" but NOT SHARP.

Generally, you only replace yer starter ringgear ($20, cheap) when you consistently have Bendix geargrind or non-engagement. And that requires splitting yer tractor. Don't be fooled by gummed up or WORN starter bendix 1-way pawls that will also cause geargrind and non-engagement. New improved clutch style starter bendix $40 (cheap)..... ...Dell

This noise is often INTERMITTENT at first. Some bearings die VERY slowy, squealing a horrifying death wail like some mythic banshee in winter and sounding better in warm weather.

Others squeal at times and work silently at times, for no discernable reason. The one in my Citation seemed to act up only when I had a date...

Others go all at once.

As long as you don't hear any noise, it SHOULD be okay. But no one can tell you for how long...

I know the feeling.