CLK-Class (W208) 1998-2002: CLK 200, CLK 230K, CLK 320, CLK 430 [Coupes & Cabriolets]

Starter motor turns but doesn't engage

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Old May 28, 2023 | 01:58 PM
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CLK 320, 1999
Starter motor turns but doesn't engage

So initially rarely the starter motor sometimes engaged for a too short period, sometimes it didn't engage at all. In both cases the starter motor kept turning but of course it didn't have contact with the flywheel.
The above mentioned only happened rarely.
Then I got a crank but no start issue when hot. I replaced the CPS but the crank but no start issue persisted. As I was diagnosing further and tried to start the car the starter motor only engages with the flywheel briefly (like for a split second) and now this is a constant status.
Basically I can't start the car.

Of course I know this sounds like a solenoid or starter motor clutch issue and the best would be to inspect the starter motor.
Now I'm a DIY guy with several mercs behind me but currently I absolutely cannot find time to remove the starter motor.
The reason I'm writing this post is whether you guys have some ideas I could try before shelling out big bucks at an indy.

I checked battery voltage and also load tested it. It's in perfect condition.
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