Correct way to install a starter???

[n737nc]

I broke my starter(long story). And, I am going to install a new one tomorrow night. This is a 1972 with a 350 motor.

How do you know the correct amount of shims to install?

I have installed a few starters over the years, but I just reused the original shim that were there with the previous starter.

The start that has been on this motor was making some serious racket when it was engaging. So I figured that it was not shimed correctly.

So, when I install the new one, how will I know it is correct?

Thanks,
Nick

[cdowns]

best way is to read the instructions that come with the new starter
the correct spacing when the starter gear is in the engaged position is 1/8th inch between teeth
if your starter was making alot of noise you should check the flywheel/flexplate for worn teeth

[1972C10]

an 1/8 welding rod will work if you dont get the rod to check flywheel distance with the new starter that clearence really needs to be right bolt the starter on with no shims and check it

Your aiming for 1/8 between the flywheel and the shaft of the starter that the gear rides on ,

Some starters will go on and be perfect some are caddywhompassed.

[2low72]

I've shimmed and unshimmed my current starter like 90 times and it still tends to make a horrific sounds when starting sometimes. and thats with a new fly wheel and new starter, and i used the 1/8 rod to measure the distance. i think that it might just be the cheap $30 dollar starter i got at autozone. but who knows maybe one day i'll figure it out.