starter motor problem after conversion to manual

[seany-boy]

I converted my 70 351C back to manual a while ago and have had consistent issues with the starter motor 'missing' and not engaging about every 3rd time I try to start. I used the auto starter motor I already had  with a spacer. I have played with it to see if I could get a tighter fit to the flywheel but no change.
Should I get a short throw manual starter or am I likely to have another issue, I don't believe the flywheel teeth were damaged but will check when I get next get it on hoist.
Just wondering if this is a typical issue or if I have an issue with my car?

[6t9m1]

 
You have done everything right so it sounds like the pinion gear on the end of your starter is freewheeling as it is attached to a one way clutch.
But in saying that if you hear a screech it may be a clearance issue as you mentioned.

I will also add that some spacers need a small relief area ground out of them to sit squarely on the starter.

[GLENN 70]

I can’t remember but I don’t think you need the spacer . That’s for Aussie starter motors for manuals not autos . American starters are different but I’m not 100% sure now

[seany-boy]

thanks I will take another look at how square it is on the spacer. Definitely need it Glenn as the auto and manual ring gear is located differently.

[GEOFF289]

US cars had two different starters for auto and manual but when they started putting 289's in XR Falcons they only used the auto one and developed the spacer for the manuals. So the spacer will be needed in this application.

[GLENN 70]

What I was trying to say was the American starters were different to our Aussie ones . The US ones had 2 different starters for auto and manual transmissions . Aussi starters were the same but a manual needed the spacer .  You might have an aussi starter .

[HEVEN67]

What I was trying to say was the American starters were different to our Aussie ones . The US ones had 2 different starters for auto and manual transmissions . Aussi starters were the same but a manual needed the spacer .  You might have an aussi starter .

Ill put my money on this one.
luvheV

[seany-boy]

lol, a bit of confusion coming into the thread. As per the initial post, I have a spacer in the car. It is a US auto starter motor from when the car was an auto and never had this issue but now it is a manual (with a spacer) I am having the issue about every 3rd or 4th time I try to start it. I will check how square the motor is if the spacer sometimes need modification as per suggestion from 6t9m1.

Cheers everyone for your replies.

[Daz 67GTA]

I've got a couple of spare "aussie" starters you are more than welcome to try out (remote soloniod). Give me a call  - I've sent a PM.

[6t9m1]

Picture of Spacer Cut Out