For anyone having the same problem, here's how I resolved it: I took apart the engine shield enough to get access to the starter. I then sprayed a Teflon lubricant onto the threads. I picked up the lubricant some years ago at a bike shop - it goes on wet, but dries to a dry waxy film. That was a couple weeks ago and I haven't had any more problems - it starts right up. The bike shop version of the Teflon lubricant is undoubtedly more expensive than the graphite lube or the PB Blaster dry lubricant.
Enjoy
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