If a starter is overheated does it die or just lose power? I can turn my newly built 383 strocker over without plugs in, but once I install the plugs it hardly moves. I have a Powermaster XS Torque Starter, which is rated to an 18 to 1 compersion ratio, I calculate 10 to 1. Have I Smoked the starter? It does this even after I let it sit for a day.

 

I don't think you've fried the starter. Unless you've sat there and cranked it for like a minute straight. Sounds like you've got something else going on.....
Lowell

 

Yes the starter has less cranking power when real hot.
copper gains electrical resistance as temp raises.

Sounds like the starter is either now toast or was defective to start with.

Good conections are important as is proper starter/ring gear alignment and gap. (shimming) You want to test it under load (cranking) measure the voltage drop.
( amount of voltage not going thru the starter) and amperage draw.

either, if exessive indicates a faulty starter.

The radiant heat off of headers really shortens the life of starter motors. A heat shield can help.

 

the only other thing I can think of is timing is off

 

I was also thinking the samething. The timing might be off by a bit.
Lowell