66S;

Correct observation...that's because we'd all like to get the car started...and typically that's were the most problems occur...but in your slightly unusual case, once started, it sure would be nice to have the starter back gracefully out of the darn way...I can imagine how you feel!

Chakra has it right!...it may be a mechanical problem with the solenoid action AND the leverage mechanism which returns the gear from being engaged with the flywheel...OR the high current contacts of the solenoid welding shut for some reason. I also agree the simplest way to locate the specific problem is probably removal and visual inspection...you can also hook it up as normal with jumper cables, and test-run it while observing the action of the mating gear...apply power to the little terminal to get action...BEWARE! Have it well supported by stepping on it or in a vice...the starting torque is impressive and may startle you into dropping it otherwise...it IS after all a 1HP motor!

Good Hunting!

This can be an electrical problem or a mechanical problem. You can pull the battery cable and see if it disengages. If not, it is mechanical. Can be caused by bad old grease in the bendix or by worn parts. The fastest solution is to drop a new starter in. A quick look at the VLV web site shows a good used one for $30. I found a remanufactured Bosch starter online for $80. You might want to pull the old starter and see if you can find the problem quickly. If not, buy another one. It is a 10 minute job to pull it--a couple of bolts and a nut holding on the wiring.