[V8] Starter Sources?

[Buchholz, Steven]

When I was putting the new engine into #2 I noticed that the return spring
on the bendix mechanism in the starter was weak, but since I didn't have a
replacement I went ahead and installed it with the new engine.  Every so
often the starter would not engage the flywheel ... but now failures are
getting more and more consistent.  Has anyone on the list had to replace a
starter recently, and if so do you have any recommended sources?  

>From the manual it appears that it is possible to replace the solenoid
independently ... has anyone here attempted this?  How expensive were the
parts, and how much additional service did you get before the motor needed
repair?  

Final question ... when I put everything together I found it was *much*
easier to get the starter in with the oil filter removed ... this is part of
the reason I waited to look for a replacement ... I thought I'd wait until
the next oil change.  Have people been able to R&R the starter without
removing the oil filter?  This car is a 5-speed ...

Thanks!
Steve B.
San Jose, Kaleefohnia (USA)