I've got a B16a that's starting to make a little noise when I start it. I doesn't do it every time though. When I turn the key, sometimes before the engine fires up, it will make a little grinding noise. Kinda like the noise you hear when you try to start a car that's already running (c'mon, you know that sound!).

Could the flywheel be missing a few teeth? I think if the starter was worn or missing teeth, I'd hear the noise every time. I haven't taken the starter out for inspection yet.

 

Sounds like the starter is on its way out. If the problem gets worse, I would replace the starter.

It may be having issues keeping the gear engaged or disengaging it, so it grinds.

 

If the starter has had problems engaging, it may have damaged some of the flywheel teeth. Maybe, or maybe not; but you aren't gonna know until you remove the starter & look at it's pinion & look at all the flywheel teeth. Just remember only turn the engine forwards.