mini-starter sticking

I left off the dust shield when putting my engine back in. So tight I can't get a hand in. Now my mini-starter clicks, doesn't turn, and hangs engaged. I have a 10YO battery, freshly charged. Connected at the bulkhead to insure its not voltage drop. Could the dust shield be the issue?

Yes, i had this exact problem. You need the shield or a spacer of roughly the same thickness

Thanks. Not looking forward to it.