starter location question.

[like2drive]

I am swapping out my automatic for a 4 speed in my 81 Vette. Will I run into anyproblem w/the starter? a mechanic told me it will have to be moved to the other side when I go to a 4 spdeed. If it has to be moved, will the mounting holes already be drilled to bold into? thanks in advence. Jim

 

[WARVET]

Hey like2drive, I don't think that's correct, but it depends on what side your starter is on now. I have a 75, but I think it's very similar to an 81 and my manual has the starter on the passenger side. I think most small blocks of this era are the same.

 

[mkapp7879]

I wouldn't be going back to that mechanic! Where would he move the oil filter when he bubba'd the starter to the other side? Starter stays on the passenger side for either auto or 4speed.
Mike

 

[wishuwerehere82]

I have never seen a starter on a small block in any other place than where it was originally mounted. I mean, why? That's where it belongs, on the pass. side of the block. I hope your mechanic doesn't intend to bolt the new tranny on the front of the engine. I would find a new mechanic who's name isn't BUBBA!

 

[waterboy1976]

But I thought when you went to a 4 speed your starter was a good push from behind and then pop the clutch....lol......starter stays on the right side....

 

[vette-dude]

Starter stays on the same side but I think you will have to have a starter for a four speed, clutch flywheel as the Auto starter has a different number of teeth on the pinion (bendix drive). Not sure but seem to remember this is an issue. You could probably just buy the Starter bendix drive and replace it and keep the original stater. Easy to do. Check a parts house and see if part number for a bendix drive on a manual and auto are the same or not.

Randy

 

[jdp6000]

Another question....

Will the crank on the existing motor fit the 4 speed transmission? I know with some motors you can't just swap an automatic for a standard transmission.

Jim

 

[waterboy1976]

the only thing I can think of is does your crank have the hole for the pilot bushing?. I believe..and someone will back me up here......they all have the hole but Im not sure...anyone else????

 

[bossvette]

The starter should remain the same there are two different size flexplates on autos 153 and 168 tooth (I am going from memory) requireing different starter bolt patterns 350's usually have the 168 so it should not be an issue. You will need a pilot bearing in the end of the crankshaft which are all drilled the same.
the only time the starter moves from one side of the block to the other is on V6's from front drive to rear drive the block castings are different.
The clutch fork is different on the Corvette then the passenger car. I believe the blocks are drilled for both starter bolt patterns, but it has been awile and I am not at home to look.

 

[waterboy1976]

You will also have to have the hole drilled on the left side of the block for the clutch pedal cross shaft ball stud........and the mount on the frame rail where the other side of the cross shafts bolts to...

 

[like2drive]

Thanks to all for the good feedback! ditto on the bendix change. The "mechanic" was actually a parts remover at a junk yard...may have inhaled too much gasoline? :cool
I started this project about 3 months ago, but had to stop for other matters. Maybe by the time Carlisle comes..... thanks again, jim