Reeves:

I have a '97 SE, and it has the same starter problem. The cause is that
the small pinion gear on the starter motor shaft does not retract when
the flywheel ring gear spins faster after the engine starts. The pinion
gear is caused to spin faster than it otherwise would spin if it
properly disengaged. It doesn't disengage because the spiral spline
inside the pinion has too much friction - and that may be due to several
causes, for example, binding due to wear, rust, lack of lubrication, or
the retractor spring is broken.

My mechanic, Mienecke Mufflers of Edison, NJ,in this case, said that the
cost of replacing the entire starter motor is less than a repair of the
parts. Its a low cost swap and takes 1/2 hour. Get a quotation from
them. Then you have new.

In the mean time start the engine in the prescribed way and get off the
accelerator immediately upon the engine firing up. Don't spin the engine
fast. Let the pinion disengage. Then drive normally. That will give you
x number of extra starts prior to the pinion gear or spring breaking. At
which time you need to call AAA.

Ralph Hertle