Ok, I think my starter is on it's way out and I'm probably going to replace around when skool starts. I've got a few questions. My dad is saying that a rebuilt one like you'd get from pep boys/o'reilleys/autozone etc etc. is fine. Is there any benefit to paying all that money for a brand new aftermarket one? I keep seeing high torque starters and mini starters and stuff, and they are all very expensive compared to a rebuilt one. I'm guessing that a high torque starter just makes it able to start easier by having more twisting force to turn the flywheel right? Would I need a high torque starter? I'm planning on SLP headers and full exhaust, not much in the performance area, just get it into the 14's. Should I spend the money on a high torque? Would I have any clearance problems with the headers if I don't get a mini starter? Also, I've seen heatshields for the starter, they aren't that expensive, it wouldn't be a bad idea to buy a heat shield and throw it on for piece of mind would it? I live in Oklahoma and it can get mighty hot, 105+. Thanks

 

I wouldn't spend the money on a fancy starter, a rebuilt one with a lifetime warranty is fine. Buy a heat shield for the solenoid and stick that on. A normal starter should work fine.

 

Yeah, the performance ones are always better. But the rebuilt ones have a lifetime warranty, and I don't see where you can go wrong on this. Just depends if you hate to change the things. BTW, rezinn, where would you get some of that heat shield stuff for the solenoid?

 

The heat shields are available at any AutoAone store. Bolts right on the solenoid (remove the two bolts on the solenoid cover, put the shield on and replace the two bolts.) You're done.

 

if you have a high compression engine, like 12:1 or so or want to save weight go for a mini. i have one from gmpp and saved over 15 pounds. if you want a stock replacement buy one from one of the local parts stores, but be prepared for it to fail at some point and hope it doesn't.

 

How much was your GMPP one? I am always into saving weight.