I have put in 7 starters on my 383 chev engine in a 74 vette. I started having starter problems with previous emgine (stock 350) and had engine builder build a 383 for a little more go, etc. Since I got the motor in (new flex plate) I have put in 7 starters ranging from a new delco remy conventional starter to 3 hi torque small size starters.
Each starter lasts 3 or 4 starts, makes terrible grinding noises, and now there is a few metal slivers on the ring gear. When a freind starts car and I observe starter it seems that drive comes out OK, but when extended, it does not make contact with ring gear, barely touches it, etc.
adding a spacer would make it worse as it would move starter down and away from ring geat.
Ideas anyone, I am in need and about $500 out of pocket now. Ple4ase answer to me at snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.com if possible