starter issues

[oldschooler]

Hey Guys,
I need help please. I bought a new starter for my engine back in nov. I just now got around to installing, its finally ready to fire up. My problem is that the bendix gear is not engaging into the flywheel. It looks like the starter needs to be about a half an inch closer to the block. Either my flywheel needs to be bigger or the gear on the bendix needs to be bigger. Shimming will only move it farther away from the flywheel. I checked the block casting numbers just to make sure I got a starter for the right year block. My bolt pattern on the new starter is staggered, My block has another hole for a straight across bolt pattern. I dont remember what 2 holes the old starter used, but I do remember I had a short bolt and a long bolt. The new starter has to have 2 long bolts. I returned the starter and they insist it is the right starter. If someone took this motor out of a standard tranny vehicle, would it have a smaller flywheel. Maybe I need a starter for a standard tranny, Is there a difference? I am confused and want to get this thing started. Thanks, Rich