Yet another cam thread
Your battery may be getting low from all the start attempts with little charge time which can make the starter slow to engage/disengage. Might want to charge the battery if you can or at least check to see if it reads 12.8 vdc with motor not running
You can pull the inspection cover off the bell-housing and look at FW teeth and/or pull starter. Generally the starter teeth will strip before FW IIRC . Any wear should be clear "if" that is the source of your noise. From this side of the keyboard....hard to hear what may be a clearer sound in person
Car sure should start faster though...





