starter problems

[jodydewey]

I have a 1974 Chevy 350 with a TH350 installed in my 1968 shortbed fleetside. I keep chewing up starters and breaking the nosecone. I have tried shimming a brand new starter in 20 thousandths increments to 120 thousandths with no luck. I thought the flexplate was rounded too much so I replaced it with a brand new flexplate (FRA-100 autozone) listed for a 1974 Chevy C10 4x2 with a 350 2bl (VIN code Y). When the starter turns over it engages but after about 3 turns it starts to spin and kinda move away from the flexplate. I have tried 5 different part number starters and none of them seem to work. I checked the suffix number on my block and my casting number is 3970010 and my suffix code is CKH which means it should be a 1973 or 1974 Chevy 350 in either a truck or a Chevelle. Am I missing something here? I would have thought that replacing the starter and the flexplate should have solved my problem. HELP!!!!!

[faribran]

Is the front BRACE still attached? this is an important part..

[jodydewey]

You know, I wondered about that. I have laid under the truck and watched the starter in action (with safety goggles on of course). The engine turns over with no problems about 3 revolutions and then all of the sudden the starter seems to move slightly and the gear hangs up in the flexplate. I stop the starting, loosen the starter, tighten it back up, and it seems fine for another 3 turns. The front bracket is not on there. I wondered if it was needed or not. I can order one from LMC for like 8 bucks. I was also wondering if new starter bolts would help. I remember they are supposed to be knurled on the shaft where they meet the starter housing but mine look like regular bolts. Needless to say this problem is KICKING MY BUT!!!!

[Green Machine]

Yes, you should use actual starter bolts, the knurling keeps the starter from moving around, worth a try.

[graham_n_smith]

hey guys,
i had starter problems too haha but my was due to the place that rebuilt my motor (idiots* cough cough) any ways when they were rebuilding my 350 they broke of the front mount on the motor so they built there own which didnt work so i said i'd fix it... it took me 6 months errrrg well its fix now but i dont know how i hate working with Chevy starters all tho there the best out there hehe

GNS AUTO