Our 2000 JXi upon starting is only engaging for one rotation maybe, then kicking out. After multiple tries, it will start as it should. It is almost as if the starter can't push through the stroke when it is failing. All connections look clean an the battery is not a year old. Was intermittent, now it is occurring at almost every stop.
Ideas?

 

Replace the starter. It's old enough to buy booze. In starter years, it means it's time to be retired.

 

Already new with the battery in '20

 

Gee, I guess I should have known that. Everybody replaces the starter when replacing the battery, don't they?

You probably want to think about taking that starter back.

 

Agree with dcotter about replacing the starter. I found that buying a new starter was always better than buying rebuilt. Replaced one too many rebuilts within a year or two on the 2.5l. Main problem is the magnets in the starter would crack. A bit surprised you are not having the underhood fuse #8 blow with the excessive current draw.