The first rule with Continental engines is
don't fly the aircraft if the starter is not working properly. As STEP pointed out mechanical mayhem is a distinct possibility due to the stupid design of the starter
A fellow I know had a similar issue with his starter. He hand bombed it to get home. When he arrived the engine was making strange noises.
When the mechanic investigated he found the starter drive had disintegrated and bits of metal from the steel starter spring had gone through the engine.
The damage was extensive including a ruined crank shaft and resulted in a 20 K repair bill.
