Grinding when starting

Starting to get a very quick grind when cold starting. Has only happened twice so far. Does not do it every cold start. Grinding noise lasts like a half second but it’s decently loud. Just hit 300k, could we suspect the starter?

 

I've had a 5MT do that before on another platform and it was the starter covered in clutch dust. Removing it and giving it a good cleaning fixed it up. It didn't sound anything like the power steering sound, definitely sounded like rotational metal on metal and seemed to fade out as the sound continued (only lasting a second or 2 tops) - I suspect as the starter was slowing down from its initial start. I'd put my money on the starter, probably worth replacing at this point, you've definitely got your moneys worth out of it by now.

 

Rotational metal on metal is a good way of putting it. What’s the consensus for 1st gens on this.. rebuild it or replace? I see two Densos on rockauto for just over $100. Rebuild kits about $20

 

spend the $100. I just had mine rebuilt at a local shop for like $75 when i did my 4x4 conversion.

 

Update to this:
It stopped grinding upon start up about 5 days ago or so. Starts up with no noise/grinds. Could this still be the starter? Can a starter temporarily “fix itself” for awhile? I ended buying a Denso replacement. I know I could’ve rebuilt it but with 300k miles I’m ok with spending extra for a replacement.

 

What ever was grinding has removed enough material to no longer grind.

Things shifted enough to no longer grind.