I swapped my 305 to a brand new 383 crate. When i crank it, it feels like it is tight(incorrect torque/clearences). But when i put the bottom end together it spun freely. My question is, will the starter off the 305 work with the 400 flexplate/flywheel? After a few cranks the starter gets extremely hot. I have examined the new flexplate for any tooth wear from the starter, and it still looks brand new.
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

 

what kind of starter and how much compression on the new 383?

 

If the starter wasn't correct it wouldn't work at all. Sounds to me like the starter was used to a smaller lower compression engine, and now with a larger and probably higher compression motor it doesn't have the power to turn it. Sometimes starters are shimed away from the block/crank, which you could probably try and see if it makes a difference. The shims can usually be bought right off the shelf at most auto parts stores, just a matter of if your starter has inline or offset mounting bolts.

 

If you dig around on the internet some you will find a starter clearance checking tool. Little rod that goes in between the flywheel and starter gear. You shim the starter until the rod slides freely in between the high point of the starter gear and the low point of the flywheel ring.

Your starter is probably aligned proper. They don't usually go out. Its probably too much engine/compression to turn over.

Buy a quality gear reduction starter. That should fix your problems. You wouldn't believe how many people I've seen get 11.5:1 496's built and expect the stock starter to work. They'll barely turn the engine over.

 

I picked up a permanent magnet starter for a '97 5.7 Vortec truck for my motor, which is considerably bigger than a 383, and spins in over just fine, and it is quite a small starter. Go to a parts store and ask for a starter for a '97 Chevy truck with the 5.7, they used a ministarter for a 168t flywheel. If you need for 153t ask for a '93-97 Camaro with a 5.7

 

Hate to nit pick but a 5.7 vortec truck motor is smaller than a 383 at 6.2 liters. Add some compression a camshaft and a tight new timing chain and the load is considerably more.

 

Doesnt matter if its smaller... it turns over my 454 (7.4L) just fine. They use a very strong starter.