I got a new bendex for my starter motor. (looks different from the old original one) How can I close it enough to get the pin in? Thanks

 

Oops, you're not supposed to do that. :-) We used to use pieces of pencil lead and it was a pita. Here's a video that makes it easier to see how than explain how. BE SAFE! If you're uncomfortable doing this, find a starter shop to help you.
ratchet style starter drive repair - Google Search

 

OK......we've spun the starter bendix and yes, it's closed up....but.......the hole at the top is no bigger and the ""shelf" below it doesn't slide down. How do you get the pin in if you can't get to the hole?

thanks

 

I had to take the bendix off my starter because it was jammed in the start position. After freeing it up it took me some time to get it back on the shaft. It's been a long time since I did this but if I remember correctly I used a screwdriver that was small enough to go into the hole and pried the bendix down to get the pin started. Once you get the pin started in the bendix you can line it up with the hole in the shaft and drive it in the rest of the way. I think there is a large spring inside the bendix that you need to compress to get the pin in.

 

Ya gotta be tough or do like Indy' says above or use a large c-clamp or similar to compress the spring allowing the collar to dive below the hole.