shim or no shim starter?
 

hello folks i have an 82 pacecar with the 305 crossfire i am replacing the starter do i need to use shims and if so how much do i shim it the original engine was rebuilt 17 years ago and was just started 3 days ago then the race starter i had bit the dust it didnt have a starter when i got it and the original starter is long gone i appreciate any help i can get

Re: shim or no shim starter?
 

You use shims...if the starter needs them to mesh properly with the flywheel. There's no telling whether you need shim(s) or not without checking the starter-to-flywheel mesh.

Figure out what starter you're going to use, mount it to the block, and check the mesh. Shim as needed. It's easier if you leave the solenoid off the starter, so you can move the starter drive into position easily when verifying the mesh.

I've never had to use shims on my 89 that's with the stock starter and the corvette mini starter

Re: shim or no shim starter?
 

Iirc .035 between the tip of the starter gear and flywheel. If it stays I gauged shim it. With metal contraction colder weather grinding staying engaged it's to close. A paperclip is .035. It depends a lot of remand need to be shimed because of resurfacing on the flange.