starter problems

[steemer54]

I have a 69 ranger with a 390 auto, have had constant problems with the starter. Put the new starter on yesterday with shims. Sometimes would start other times would give that horrible grinding sound. Took the shims out and had the horrible sound without starting. Put shims back in and have the same first problem. My question is do I shim it out more or what is the solution? Any suggestions would be appreciated, It's driveing me nuts!!!!

[BRUTUS_T_HOG]

sounds like your flywheel ring gear is worn pretty bad. rotate the engine 45 degrees in normal rotation and it should catch until you get it fixed

[ToughOldFord]

Is this the same problem your other starter had? If not, I'd trade the new one for another.
If yes, pull the starter and check your flywheel teeth. Rotate the engine by hand, (coil wire off), and watch the flywheel for one complete rotation to inspect the entire wheel.

[Thunderfoot]

What they have said...
I have never had or seen a Ford starter have to be shimmed.

[Bullitt390]

FE engines should not need shims.

Is the engine block plate installed? The thin piece that goes between the block and bellhousing?

Get yourself a new flywheel.

Josh

[fordman]

several problems that it could be.
1 flywheel teeth ate up.
2 no enigne plate between the engine and the transmission
3 the wrong engine plate between the enigne and transmission. maybe someone swapped in a auto from a manual trans.
4 maybe the new starter is bad. i doubt it.