I have recently put a 305 small block in my 61 and a newer aluminum powerglide. Now I have had 5 new starters and none would fit. I'm getting another one tomorrow from bensons and hope it works. I presume 283,305,350 starter would be the same? The problem I'm having is the rear housing on the starter,bolts will line up to the block if only the housing shaft would not hit the flex plate which is 168 teeth. I'm out about 1/2 inch or less at the back. I was thinking of putting on a starter that does not have the housing, just the gear, any suggestions would be appreciated thanks Brent
For a 168 tooth ring gear you need the starter with the stagerd bolt pattern. If your 305 has the bolt holes for it. The one's your useing are the straight across pattern ? As stated above that would need a 153 tooth ring gear. There is a two inch difference in the ring gears .
I just picked up a staggered one today and try it tonite as I do have the 168 ring gear in it. All the starters I tried were straight across bolt holes. Thanks guys, will let u know if it works. Brent