2003 Vibe (base - 1zz) starter question

[mntn-biker]

I just dropped a hundred dollar bill on a battery since it seemed like my 6 year old battery gave up the ghost. Turning over the engine at cold, it is real sluggish and when it's hot, I need to tap on the starter with a hammer so seems to me like my starter is the culprit. Rather than dropping another $100, anyone ever yank their starter, pull these apart, and clean/grease the starter gear rod and bushing? Not sure if these are even accessible but seems like they would have to be to be able to reman these. Just trying to get a little more life out of the starter before spending another $100 that I don't have right now. If this wouldn't be worth my while, I'll keep the hammer in my car for the time being.

Thanks in advance for your input.

[circuitsmith]

The problem is in the starter solenoid.
Might be possible to pull it apart and clean the contacts with fine (320+) grit emery cloth.