So, once in a while when I'm starting her up, my starter makes this odd sound like it's locking up (crushing rocks type sound). Its once in a while, and then it will fire right up... it's almost like the compression from the engine is to much for the starter...

thoughts? is this normal?

 

check battery
check connections (esp. ground connections to the frame)
check solenoid plunger - may need to be lubricated

 

The pinion gear jumping out of the ring gear, some causes of this listed in jokenroll's post,
or
starter clutch?

 

Rgr that... I'll take a look.. where and how would I locate the solenoid plunger and what would i lube it with? Like I mentioned it happens once I a while.. not a big deal, just kinda freaky when it happens.

 

starter clutch? Aren't those some kinda plastic gears? Plus if they fail, they wouldn't cause the drive gear to get outta mesh with the clutch gear ring, hence wouldn't cause this type of noise....

 

You better fix that before it leaves you stranded somewhere
Unscrew the squarish cover on your starter - 3 small bolts. The plunger pulls right out. Be sure to disconnect the battery before!!!!!!!
Just grease it with smth genreal purpose, not too much

 

You dont want to replace a ring gear. Should get it fixed. Does it only happen when the engine is hot?

 

When I've had this happen (only a couple of times in 20 years), it's usually a sign of a weak battery or poor connections (too much resistance loss). The battery can't quite supply enough current to both hold the solenoid in to engage the pinion gear, and crank the engine at the same time.

 

so, think maybe replacing the battery would make a difference? it has a HD batt in it now and I always have it on a battery tender when its not running. however I know just because I keep it on a tender doesn't mean my battery is in good health.
not to mention it needed to be "re-charged" when I got it.

Any recommendations on battery brands? preferably something i can get from of drag specialties/parts unlimited ?

 

Before you just buy a new battery take the one you have to an auto parts store and have it load tested.

I like yuasa batteries.