So I took my starter out today because of grinding noises at start up and the contacts are worn but I looked at the gear and the ball bearings behind the gear. First, it looks like there are bearings missing as there are not a lot f bearings around the gear. Second, one KC the bearings has some sort of metal around it and I don't know if it broke off and is floating around inside or what? I might have to take this starter in to Toyota and let them look at it. I want to keep my oem starter but not sure if I can rebuild it or have to buy a new one? I have not seen vids or write ups on rebuilding the ball bearings and other things in the starter besides the contacts. If anyone can chime in here I would appreciate it.