Intermittent starter issue (grinding noise).

Maybe once a month when I start my 1997 3.0L van it gives a grinding noise. Then I turn the key off and attempt to start it again and it will start no problem. It has done this off and on for a couple years now.
Any ideas on possible starter/bendix issues?

-Scott
p.s. mine is at 258,000 miles and still runs great.

It could be the starter or the flexplate.

Not sure what the "flexplate" is. I"m thinking its the bendix bearings not letting the pinion gear slide forward. I just bought a new starter and hoping to change it in the morning.

The flexplate is the same thing as a flywheel.

Flywheel looked ok. Teeth on it where not really chewed up and the starter teeth looked ok.
New starter is installed and everything seems to be working. Well at least for just 4 starts.
Scott