actually i dont think it needs shimmed but i could be wrong the starter needs to be closer to the ring gear .... seems to me that shims will move it away is that right ? if so how can i get it closer ? all the parts worked fine on the old block but maybe this new one is a little tight ... the block is a mid 70s 400 sbc stock type starter how ever the fly wheel is larger then stock and takes a 12 inch clutch but like i said it all worked fine on the old block ... any advice will help ... thanks
tao

the bell housing isnt stock and the fly wheel isnt hitting that...

 

Putting a shim(s) on the outside bolt (away from the crank) kinda rotates the starter toward the flywheel/flexplate.

You gotta remember the starter doesn't sit "underneath" the flywheel/flexplate. It sits next to it. That's why the shims work.

 

thanks AJ ill give it a try ... tao