When I go to start my 2.8L automatic 1987 Firebird (all info), the starter just goes into grinding mode - very annoying. Car doesn't start or try to turn over. So I reach under the car with my trusty persuassion tool (a hammer) and tap on the starter. Go to start it - no grinding, but it sounds like fan blades cutting through air. Try to start again, goes to grinding.

Obviously, it's time for a new starter, but could the flywheel (or what ever it is called) be damaged too? Could the flywheel have frozen, and what would cause that? Is that difficult to replace/fix?

 

flywheel might be missing teeth you won't know till you go look.
It is bolted to the crank so if it is "frozen" then so is your engine.

 

ho can I check to see if the crank is frozen?

 

turn the crank pulley with a socket and breaker bar CLOCKWISE

 

HA HA! THanks!

 

crank turns. that's a good thing. I have a new starter, now to get it in and check the flywheel