The subject of Mini starters or so called high torque starters, has been discussed here on several occassions. Some users are quiet happy with the operation of them, especially as they are lighter & easier to install. However, I've read of at least one case, where use of one resulted in the ring gear being pushed off the flywheel. Apparently this is because the original bendix equipped starters on Y-Blocks, engaged from the rear, and the Ring Gear stops on the flywheel are on the front.. It appears that most or possibly all mini starters appear to have some sort of  engagement from the front.. In any case, looking at the starter sold by Automotive Electrical Services (for instance) can some one explain to me how this setup works? Is it engaged in the ring gear all the time & just free wheels when not engaged or does it actually project rearward to engage?. Further, how is it that a much smaller starter can be referred to as being high torque?  Would  "a  gear reduction starter" be  a more appropriate description?  Thanks..


Paul

It moves rearward to engage. I've had one on for years with no flywheel problems to date. I've also had starter rings come off and welded them back on.

Y's guys rule!
Looking for McCullouch VS57 brackets and parts. Also looking for 28 Chrysler series 72 parts. And early Hemi parts.

MoonShadow, 292 w/McCulloch, 28 Chrysler Roadster, 354 Hemi)
Manchester, New Hampshire

The starter gear projects rearward.

I don't know about proper terminology.  What I do know is that is has worked great for me for about 15 years now, when rebuilt stock starters weren't lasting more than a year.
Oh, they call it gear reduction on their website.  The "high torque" is achieved by that gear reduction.  Also plausible, is modern starter technology.  In general, modern things are smaller, lighter and  produce as much or more than their vintage counterparts.



Lawrenceville, GA

Paul, I once had a ring gear come off an aluminum flywheel a result of clutch slippage, heating up the flywheel and stretching the ring gear and it fell off (stock Ford starter). I fixed it by drilling and tapping 4 equally spaced holes and inserted Allen screws with red locktite while it was on the car and drove it that way a couple of years.

  Vic Correnti

I've had mine on over 15 years with no problems.  Car is used a lot.


54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ