At my age one thinks he knows everything.
So, one freezing winter morning when I started my Golf (1.8L 1998) starter suddenly
switched to free running. Bendix gone, I thought!

Without thinking too much I bought a new one and changed it.

But to my surprise, the new one did just like the old one...

Then I connected the old starter motor to the battery and it worked.
It pushed that little wheel out and it started to roll.
I thought it was OK (even though the bearings weren't in shape at all)

I also tested the new starter. I tried if there was some kind of a problem in a flywheel.
I rolled the belt of the engine. But still it didn't work, only starter running free.

I would be very grateful of any tips for this problem.....