This is a conversion from a 3 speed manual to a C4. Both trannys are off 302's. While finishing the install I decided to use the 3 speeds starter as it was fairly new. The new flexplate, and the old flywheel are both 164 tooth, so I figured it would pop right in. I've done this before without problems. This starter's bolts line up fine, but the starter hangs up on part of the hole cut in the C4's spacer plate. It's VERY close, but it won't pop in.

Can I save this somehow, or do I need a new starter? Thanks.

 

Bump...

Any replies to this thread would be appreciated because I will be facing the 3-speed manual to AOD swap question any day now.

 

sure that is the right spacer plate for that tranny, because if i remember right, those are all casted aluminum, i don't think you have the right tin spacer for that tranny, might either want to do some modifying or find a different spacer.

 

You did not say what years you are working with. From the mid 90's (or before) and later, Ford started using an offset gear reduction starter and I do not think it will work with older systems. Here is a photo of it.

 

Sorry about that. In my application I will be going from a 71 302 3-speed to a 89 AOD. When I list the mid 80's starter for a small block and the early 70's manual starter I get two different numbers (AZone). Even if both are 164 tooth they may be different throw or offset of flexplate/flywheel ring gear, right?

Steve

 

You have to use the starter for the year of the transmission.

I have a 1971 351W out of a car in my 1983 F150 with an AOD Transmission in it and I am still using the original starter that came with it in 1983. My 1983 had a 302 in it and I wanted a 351W.

A 1971 and a 1983 Starters have different part numbers and I do not know what the difference is.

 

Thank you, I will pick up another starter and hopefully I can get it without a solenoid and keep the look of the '66 with its external, fender-mounted solenoid.