I have a start issue with my 92 V6. When I turn the key to start, I hear a whir and then a clunk but the starter did not engage the engine. It might do this several times before it engages and then the engine fires up right away. I live out in the country in Alberta and do not have easy access to a jag mechanic and jagbits suggested someone here might be able to assist. Thanks, Garry

 

Could be a loose battery Terminal, not making proper contact, best to check that first and then come back.

 

Could be a sticking bendix spring or a broken spring. Not sure on procedure to remove the starter on 6's but chances are it's a GM starter. So parts are common. Good luck

 

I agree with this.

If you turn the key to the "Start" position and you hear a whir then that is the sound of the starter motor turning but the bendix gear did not engage with the flywheel. The motor is just spinning freely.

The "clunk" sound is most likely the bendix trying to move but it cannot engage the flywheel because the starter motor is already spinning.

You need to either replace the bendix or just replace the entire stater assembly.

Mark