Yes i used the keys to keep the starter from moving away from the flywheel.
When the starter nose cone goes in the bellhousing using the starter mounting bolt as a dividing line.
One side of that dividing line the starter drive gear meets the flywheel.
Using the bolts as a dividing line again. The opposing side were the gear teeth are is were you put the keys, but only about to a depth of 1/4 of a inch.
Mark if this doesn't help let me know and i will see if i can get some pictures.

 

I had a similar problem and had to shift my starter over.
I went so far as to file the piloting diameter.

I Helicoiled the bell housing and used a flange head bolt.

Pic's and dialog in the 'Jim's ongoing starter issues' thread

 

That would be great. Brand new starter, same problem

 

After burning up the first new starter... I did this as suggested. ..and grabs fine. There is a tad amount of play apparently where the starter lines up with the bolt holes and such. Mind blowing



Keeps the starter closer to flywheel and grabs it great. Very temporary fix I hope...<br/><br/>Maybe once the snow stops I will feel like wrenching more

 

Hi marktrot,
looks good glad it work for you. Mine is still working.

 

Hello all, thought I would let everyone that has had starter issues like I have I think I have found a solution. For the first time since I bought this truck it starts and sounds like it should. The configuration I am working with is in my signature. I bought a powermaster XS 9505 starter.
I can't believe the difference. My last auto parts store starter the drive gear fell apart. I wont mention the auto parts store but it rhymes with orileys.
the starter sound like it should and starts every time. Hope this helps others.