Simplicity 7117 noise when starting engine

My Simplicity makes a horrible noise when I crank over the engine. Once it starts the engine sounds fine. It is only when crancking the motor. I thought it was the starter bendix but what makes it weird is that if I disconnect the spark plug wire and then crank over the engine the noise is not there. Does anyone have any idea as what could be making this noise while cranking
Thanks for the input
Rich