Remove the starter motor and inspect the teeth on the ring gear and the starter drive gear. If they are okay, either the starter drive's over-running clutch is bad or the flex plate is broken around the center where it bolts to the crankshaft.

You can also try turning the engine a little by hand, then try starting it. If that works, suspect worn ring gear teeth.

Answered by caradiodoc (expert)
17,308 answers provided

the starter and fly wheel are good.could it possibly be a bad alternator?

Response from carraba
12 questions asked

The generator has nothing to do with starting the engine unless the battery is discharged.

Answered by caradiodoc (expert)
17,308 answers provided