Orlandoanido

i have a buddy that has put in a 305 78'camaro engine in a 87 cutlass. now everything so far looks good except when we put on the starter it doesn't match up! it is off by about 1inch. my question is what starter would fit this swap! we have heard that several starters are available for it like a 83 Chevy but we arent sure what type or model. i will insert a pic to demonstrate!

Oldsguy

So you are asking about a starter application on a 305 chevy engine? Sorry, I can't help with that one. Joe might know, you might get better luck on a chevy site though.

joe_padavano

I guess I'm confused. Is this the starter and flex plate that came with the engine? If so, I don't understand why they don't fit anymore. If these are not the ones that came with the motor, then you need to get them. I'm no Chevy expert, but aren't there two different ring gear sizes, and thus two different starters?

Orlandoanido

ok to clear it up. The engine came out of a 78 camaro and was installed in a 87 cutlass. the tranny from the 87 cutlas is still installed and will not be moved yet! i just need to know what starter i could put on it to be able to get the starter to turn the flywheel! that is my problem so far! to get the starter to turn the flywheel! it is about 1 inch off from engaging the flywheel!

don71

Yes there are two different flexplate/flywheel sizes for chevy.

Also two different starter nose lengths.

Also two different starter mounting bolt configurations-straight across and diagonal.

14"flyweels have 168 teeth- (51% chance you have this one)

12-3/4" flyweels have 153 teeth.

joe_padavano

The starter bolts to the block, so I'm sorry but I still don't understand what the trans has to do with it. If you used the original flexplate and starter motor from the Camaro, why doesn't it fit anymore? If you didn't, then get the starter and flexplate to fit the Camaro.