I need a gear reduction starter for my truck. Its a 86 4.9 with a 4 speed manual I ordered one from amazon that was supposed to fit but the gear stuck out too far so it couldn't disengage. Summit has some (expensive) options but i feel like i may get the same problem. I saw one starter say it was only for 5 speed manual and the automatic, which i think may be what i got despite amazon saying it'd fit. Anyone know a good gear reduction starter that'll fit?

 

There are only two starters.
Long snout for a flexplate and short throw for a flywheel.

Just check the application for the ring gear and see if it is the same diameter and tooth count.

I have an inexpensive Ebay PMGR starter from DB Electrical.
I'm quite happy with it.

 

This one says 1965-1996 4.9l w/ Manual transmission.

DB Electrical - FORD F TRUCK BRONCO 4.9L 300 6CYL NEW STARTER 1965-1996 3223 SFD0012

And here it is on Amazon

You can use the Lester 3223 number to cross to a locally available one if you like.

 

You followed the instructions and did NOT jumper the starter cable to the solenoid wire, RIGHT?

 

I have to ask, why do you need a gear reduction starter? There are millions of trucks running around with the 4.9 six cylinder and they start every day with a regular stock starter.

 

Headers, or a tight Y-pipe?

 

I have a shop installing it for me and the gear that engages with the flywheel in the starter clearly sits nearly an inch farther forward compared to the one that was in it. there were no instructions with the one i ordered but i'm assuming he installed it correctly they recommended it.

 

Both.

 

Well, if the shop tried to trigger the solenoid from the starter cable it WILL stay engaged. (self excitation and backfeed)
They need to wire the starter cable to battery+ and run a 12Ga. wire from the starter solenoid -where the cable USED to be- down to the new starter's solenoid.

I have fixed too many **** up's to have to explain how I know this to be true.

 

If you have heat soak problems it would be wise to put a blanket on it from the start.

Even if it is smaller than the one you have problems with.

 

There's some conflicting info between their website and amazon. Amazon says its only for the 92-97 4.9 but their website say what you told me. All the info says they're the exact same starter. Did you order from amazon or their website?

 

What do you mean by blanket? sorry i'm new to the performance upgrading

 

I have a 460, not the same starter.
I ordered mine from Amazon (they ship from DB)

A reflective, insulating blanket to keep the header heat from cooking the windings in the starter.
Think of it as an oven mitt.

 

Amazon says 92-97 because 1992 was when Ford installed these starters in trucks.
They retrofit to older models though (IF you follow the wiring instructions)

One other thing.
The DB starters come with both a ring terminal and a spade terminal to attach the trigger wire.
The spade terminal was always a problem on Fords.
Since you need to run a new wire anyhow, just unbolt the 'tongue' and use the eyelet.

 

The headers are wrapped down there but the blanket couldn't hurt. Do any of the typical parts houses carry them?

As for the starter i guess i may just go ahead and order it. It looks like it'll work the gear is recessed instead of sticking out and the bolt pattern is definitely the same.