<VV> Maybe the starter

[Joel McGregor]

I couldn't tell you for sure why it happens but a weak starter always shows up hot in my experience.  Does heat make the starter weaker?  Small Block Chevy engines use heat shields on the starter and headers seem to cause more starter problems so it would seem so.
I think it is a given that worn bushings make the starter weak.  Maybe the aluminum end housing and bushing expand more than the solid shaft and increase the clearance?

Joel McGregor