my truck is making a grinding noise once in a while when i start it; it seems like either the starter isn't engaging all the way or the flywheel is missing some teeth.

i don't want to replace the starter only to learn the flywheel is what needs replacment... my mechanic suggested i "remove the dust cover" to take a look at the flywheel, what is he referring to? is there something i can open up to take a look in there without dropping the transmission? it's a D1 Manual if that helps

 

On the bell housing, at the very bottom of it there is a inspection cover, remove this cover and take a look.

You need a new starter, the ONLY reason the flywheel will be missing teeth is because the bad starter chewed them off.
That is the ONLY reason you would need a new flywheel because of teeth missing.

 

that's what i figured. i won't be able to get to the starter until around christmas time, but i only have to start the truck a few more times til then...

i first noticed the noise about a month ago but i don't drive my truck everyday... not even close to that often.

hopefully i won't do too much damage to the flywheel before i can replace the starter

 

Christmas may be way to late for your flex plate. If your starter keeps grinding on the flex plate you will need to replace both at around $1400.
Get someone on it today or quit driving it till you can get the starter yanked out and replaced.

 

i'm going with the latter, since i simply don't have the time right now.

like i said, i don't drive it as much as most people and i will only be starting it... three to five more times before i'm home and can deal with it.