weird starter question

[topless82vette]

ok have a strange starter question, Im sure you have heard of stangered bolt starters as I recall weren't they used on 4 bolt main blocks ... if so why does my 82 vette have one I know the numbers on the block match the VIN number and I am sure this is supposed to be a 2 bolt block Im asking this since my starter went bad so I tried a starter for a 82 chevy 305 but it wasnt a stagered bolt start yet even the the bolt pattern wouldnt line up this block has 3 holes where the starter mounts I have seen other 80's chevy blocks that have had the straight across starter bolts but never stagered ones is this possibly a earlier block that someone has restamped the vin numbers on

thanks for your help

 

[Stingray6974]

topless,
the starters with staggered bolts are used on all 350's with automatics and on standards with the 11" clutch. 10.5 clutches use the starter with the bolts straight across. 11" flywheels and auto flexplates are 168 tooth. 10.5's are 153 tooth.
Mike