I am having problems and was wondering what others have done? I put a 425 nail in my 1966 Skylark (Not the GS) installed the TA jet coated headers (sweet by the way) but now I cannot find a starter to fit? Anyone else have this problem? I have purchased two mini starters already to no avail, one was from Jegs and the hole didn't alighn up properly (It was advertised to fit a 401 but I think they meant to say 455) the other I bought from Ebay from a dealer called Quality power in california, it bolted up ok but will not rotate enough to get by the headers? This conversion has been a pain!
Calling Tom Telesco to the rescue! "Telriv" here on the board. Telriv@yahoo.com > Tom Telesco > Classic and Muscle Automotive > 465 Glenbrook Rd > Stamford, CT 06906-1820 > Day Phone 203-324-6045 ET
The stock starter should fit, but it's not easy to get it in there! I have headers made by Kustom, they're a similar design to the T/A's. Take the large bolt out of the motor mount, and jack the engine up higher. Remove the solenoid from the starter, and the starter body should fit up in there. For even more clearance, loosen the header bolts too. Once the starter body is in place, the solenoid can be attached to it. Loosely attach the wiring to the solenoid first, then tighten when it's all in place. Make sure the main cable is not touching the header. A remote solenoid, like a Ford style, is also a worthwhile addition. It's remote location means it won't be affected by header heat. Another benefit is that the main power cable to the starter is only electricly 'hot' when the starter is engaged. On the stock setup, that cable is always 'hot' and could short out if it melts while against the header. Tom T's mini starters will work well, too!:TU:
Hi I bought a mini starter from Tom T. Its a nice piece and works good. I also was able to take it out and put it in with out removeing the headers. :TU: Bob
Jeff has a nice explaination of the swap on his website here: http://1badriv.com/rivprogres.htm#Ford Solenoid :TU:
how much are these mini starters? thats one of many things i have to buy yet radiator... wiper motor... starter... roller rockers... i could go on forever
