click...click...click... DAMMIT!

It's a common prob on the old gear-reduction starters, requires a "stud and contact" package. cheap, but the old starters can be challenging to put back together..

See pic, paragraph 10.

http://www.allpar.com/history/mopar/electrical3-starters.html

Getting results from smacking it with a hammer usually indicates worn/sticky brushes

I'd put a mini starter in it.

Thanks for the link! I'll go through my old starter and keep it on the shelf.