Here's what I got....A VERY worn out 327/350(?) of early 70's vintage with an SM420 behind it in my Cruiser. I'm planning on ordering a brand new GM crate motor today but Im worried that the starter won't bolt up to it. Right now it bolts to the bell housing (and it was a bitch to find due to the age of the trans), and I was under the impression that the starter bolted to the block on newer engines.

Do any of you know what I'm talking about, and if it's going to be an issue?

I know what you're talking about :) Cept I dont remember there being a difference in blocks, just bellhousings/starters. I have a newer block and an older bellhousing at home, if no one has an answer I can take a look when I get there.

Originally posted by Mustard Dog
I was under the impression that the starter bolted to the block on newer engines.

The starter on my 1970 vintage 400 SBC mounts to the block. The only thing I have to look for in a starter is whether it bolts straight across or at a 45 (mine's the "45"). Would think you'd have the provisions in your block for the same, though you might have to tap the holes.

TEX

Well, I had an early 70's 350 which had the starter bolted to the block. I dropped in a TBI motor, and used the same starter. Tells me the blocks are the same. I dont a change in the blocks that could keep you from using the same bellhousing/starter setups.

Originally posted by Keith
Well, I had an early 70's 350 which had the starter bolted to the block. I dropped in a TBI motor, and used the same starter. Tells me the blocks are the same. I dont a change in the blocks that could keep you from using the same bellhousing/starter setups.

Thats what I was thinking.

Sounds like you have a 66 or older bellhousing.. The starters on these bolt to the bellhousing and can be used with the newer engine.. If you are wanting to go with the newer style starter I believe you willhave to change the bell housing too..

Not necessarily 66 or older. SM465s (and probably manual 3 speeds) came with that bell housing mounted starter at least through 1972. I have a '72 Blazer to prove it.

Thanks for the help guys, my mind has been put at ease;)

Your engine has nothing to do with it since you are keeping the flywheel and bellhousing you have right now.

Originally posted by LAME
Your engine has nothing to do with it since you are keeping the flywheel and bellhousing you have right now.

Hey :rainbow: I already got the answer, I don't need any lip out of you:D :flipoff2:

Originally posted by Mustard Dog


Hey :rainbow: I already got the answer, I don't need any lip out of you:D :flipoff2:

So you wanna race when your done! Crate motor against crate motor. :evil:

Originally posted by GloNDark


So you wanna race when your done! Crate motor against crate motor. :evil:

Bring it, meet me on the lake bed:D :flipoff2:

Originally posted by Mustard Dog


Bring it, meet me on the lake bed:D :flipoff2:

Oh hell yeah!! :D:D:D