Ordered some block huger headers from Speedway and they fit perfectly on the drivers side to clear my steering box and engine cross member mount, but on the passenger side, they run right into my starter. These are the headers I am using Speedway Block Huger Headers .

Doing some reading, Looks like I need to use a "mini starter" or reduced size starter, like this that Speedway offers.

Speedway Mini Starter

Before ordering this, just want to see if anyone else has used this starter/header setup and if it clears. Doing some price shopping, looks like Speedway's price is not all that bad.

 

I have full length headers and the factory 1995 f250 starter has plenty of room as it is a very small starter . Much smaller than the older ford style starters .

 

Might check online and find for less, I know powermaster seems to advertise a lot but have never had one. Could check salvage yard most all Fords have mini starters from early 90's.With all mini starters need to wire it correct though.

 

I am running an MSD starter on my 351W. It has a mounting plate that is indexed so that you can rotate the solenoid around and gain the best clearance for your application. I had a pair of Patriot block hugger headers and they just wouldn't work even with the smaller starter. I went with Sanderson headers, I believe that the model was FF2, they drop straight down at the rear of the engine which gives plenty of clearance for motor mounts and starter. When you use this type of starter be aware that you no longer use the OEM starter relay...that function is now part of the starter solenoid.

 

So this week I picked up a started for a mid 90's F150 from the local auto parts supplier and it fit perfectly with my new headers, a little close for heat, but the fit was great.

I wanted to ensure i was installing the same kind of start, and i was counting the teeth on the gear of the start comparing the old and new. The old is a 10 tooth and the new is a 9 tooth. Will this be a problem? I am really not sure what flex plate I have, and can go count the teeth today if needed.