In an issue of YBM a while back, it was said that later F.E. starters from 390s & up fit the Y-Blk & are a better starter design. However, it was vague on specifics. (Do all F.E.'s fit?) Can anyone clarify identifying the more desirable model? Thanks..

(from Vancouver B.C.)

Paul

If you want a good starter, I recommend these guys.

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

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

I'll second that.  Been using one for about 4 years now.


Lawrenceville, GA

Thanks guys, but for reasons of cost & convenience, I prefer to consider first one of the three unused rebuilt starters, as yet not properly identified, that a friend has on hand. The starter wanted will be a 1960s - 390 & up model, which is a better, later design & also "lighter" than a Y-Block starter. I just want i.d. help, thanks.

Paul

As far as I’m aware, only the 1958 thru 1964 FE starters will work with the Y flywheel.  The pitch pattern on the flywheel teeth changed in 1965 for the FE and that pitch doesn’t match the Y at that point.  I’ve been told that there actually is an aftermarket bendix available to convert the later model starter for use on the Y.  Haven’t seen one or heard from who they are available from but surely if they are out there, someone on the site is aware of these.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

I went to our NAPA store the other day and asked for a starter for an early 60's FE and was told they needed to know the engine, vehicle,model,etc.So I told him a 352 in a 62 Galaxie and he brought out a 2 bolt starter.So obviously it wasn't right.Does anyone know exactly which vehicles and engine you need to specify so the younger generation of parts persons can find the right one in their computer?

 

Paul,

Boonville,MO

The starter article was by Richard Gaston in YBM issue #80. It only refers to 1960s F.E. 390-427 starters. The photo shown is murky, but shows a starter with a 1/2 cover over the Bendix & it appears to have a raised area on the main body. It states the starter works better than, & is smaller and lighter than a Y-blk starter. Otherwise.. ??

Paul

This is just a case where the parts store brought out the wrong starter as the ’62 FE starter will work on the Y.  This could have very easily been a case where the starter was mis-boxed which happens only too frequently on remanufactured parts.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

Thanks Ted,

I'll try again.

 

Paul,

Boonville,MO

I thought the Y Blocks had a external starter drive. do you have to modify the FE starter or is it a direct bolt in?

John F

Ballwin, MO