Talkwrench:

Though similar, the flathead and the Y starters are not the same. The Y starter has an end plate that the through bolts thread into, and the end plate is then bolted to the bellhousing with 3 bolts. The starter drives are completely different.

John - "The Hoosier Hurricane"

Thanks again everyone for your input. Before I buy a new starter I think I'm going to re-check the ring gear. I turned the motor over by hand yesterday and afterwards it started right up!
Seems like it could be a dodgy tooth on the gear.
Chris.

Excuse my ignorance here guys, Ive never really had a good look at my Y block starter are they the same as a flathead one .. With the bendix and the bolts that hold the unit together as well as holds it onto the block?



"Came too close to dying to stop living now!"

It does seem expensive, and when I got mine, it wasn't that much, but before that, I went through 2 rebuilds, about 1 a year. As a side note, I also had a rebuilt generator that didn't last. Got tired of dealing with rebuilt old tech that doesn't last, so for less than the cost of the 2 rebuilds I got that starter. No problems since. That is worth the cost.

I have no idea why the rebuilds didn't last. I use 3 different companies and the same result every time so an issue with the rebuilder is not likely. Maybe parts availability to really do it right??

Since you do have originals to use that won't cost a dime, use them. When the time comes that you need a starter, seriously consider the aftermarket one.


Lawrenceville, GA

Not sure if I want to spend that much, but worth considering. But I have 3 starters now and I think 2 of them work.

BTW OP, do you have auto parts stores there that can test the starter?

I appreciate the recommendation on the Auto Electric starter. I have been looking at them but hadn't found any comments.

http://www.autoelec.com/html/y_block_ford_gear_reduction_st.html

I got one because rebuilds don't seem to last. I've had it for at least 10 years now, trouble free.


Lawrenceville, GA

Where can I get one?

If you can rule out everything but the starter, I would go with a high torque mini starter. I have one in my 54 (4speed) and I really like it.

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

Since you have an automatic, the ring gear can't slip. So I would guess that the starter drive has failed again. On the drive there are two washers with deep slots in them to accept the ends of the torsion spring. These washers can split where the slots are and then they open up so that they don't drive the starter gear, so the starter spins without turning the flywheel.

John - "The Hoosier Hurricane"