When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
1974 302 and 1971 3 speed toploader. Does anyone have any idea why the flywheel will not reach the starter gear? All the auto parts stores tell me I need 157 tooth, 13.44" diameter flywheel but it will not meet up with starter gear. The flywheel also looks like it is set too far forward. Something is not right.
any thoughts appreciated
Are you swapping parts between those two years? There were two different flywheels in 1974; 157 and 164 tooth versions. Maybe you put the smaller flywheel into the application using a bell housing meant for the larger flywheel?
The flywheel diameter is one issue, and the other is its fore-aft location. When I was looking for a PMGR starter for my 302 with a 4 speed toploader, I found that for all early automatic transmissions and later (don't know when) auto/manual had set the flywheel or flex plate a little further back than the early manual models. The flywheel on the early manual configuration is not as deep as what was required for those in other combinations. See this picture and its info:
Thanks for the posts...
I have tried 2 157 tooth flywheels both of which diameter were too small. It is interesting that you mention the fore/aft position because both flywheels looked to be too far forward not aligning with the position of the starter gear when energized. The local auto parts store will have a 164 tooth tomorrow for me to try. Guess I am trusting the local store that the starter is the correct one. They say it is for both 71 & 74 manual 302. Fingers crossed. Thx
Thanks for the posts...
I have tried 2 157 tooth flywheels both of which diameter were too small. It is interesting that you mention the fore/aft position because both flywheels looked to be too far forward not aligning with the position of the starter gear when energized. The local auto parts store will have a 164 tooth tomorrow for me to try. Guess I am trusting the local store that the starter is the correct one. They say it is for both 71 & 74 manual 302. Fingers crossed. Thx
From your picture, the relative fore-aft locations between the starter and flywheel could be your problem.
It looks like the flywheel is sitting too far back. Is there a spacer between the flywheel and the crank? If not, it looks like there's too much "dish" in the flywheel.
It also looks like the there is no room for a starter with a longer nose, which will be required in order to have a gear that will push out farther enough to engage the flywheel ring gear, even if its diameter is correct.
Does the gear on your starter appear completely, like the left one in my picture, or does it look more like the right one, where it's just peeking over the main housing? Note the difference in how far the nose protrudes on the two versions.
This motor was paired with a c4 so the guy gave me the starter hoping it would work but didn't as the nose was too long. Local store sold me a starter which allegedly would work with a manual 74 or 71 302. Remember, the bell housing codes as a 71 and the block codes as a 74. The starter gear on it is peeking and not in full view. You are correct when you say the flywheel looks to be too far back....I was wrong in saying "forward". There is no spacer behind flywheel. Another relevant factor....I don't have a block plate yet so to obtain the correct spacing I'm using flat washers on the starter in lieu of the block plate but don't see how that could cause a problem? Remember, the engine is in the ground as for now I'm just trying to get the thing running to make sure it is in acceptable condition to drop in truck. Again, I'm a novice at all this and appreciate your help more than you know. Thank you
I just realized that the flat washers I'm using in lieu of block plate are setting the starter back out of correct position. I need to use washers on the 6 bell housing bolts. Wow, I feel like an idiot. Will check this later this morning
For the record... today the 164 tooth larger diameter flywheel came in and it work perfect. Still don't understand why all info gleaned from internet supported the 157 tooth. I really appreciate all the help!
This Hennessey Takes the Expedition Tremor's Off-Roading Capability to the Next Level
Slideshow: The VelociRaptor Expedition gains a lift, upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and trail-ready equipment while retaining the stock 440-horsepower EcoBoost V6.
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.
