Are all SBC and BBC starters the same for all years say through 95 back to the first ones?
Let me try another way of asking...
Is the mounting location the same for 86 and earlier as it is for 87 and later engine blocks?

I have a friend who has a 89 SBC engine and the starter gear is about a half of an inch away from the flex plate.??

I don't know anything about the newer engines, but with the older engines, there were two different starters. One is made to fit the smaller 153 tooth flywheels and flexplates, and the other one fits the larger 168 tooth flywheels and flexplates. In addition to that, there were at least 3 different load ratings for the early starters.

I don't know anything about the newer engines, but with the older engines, there were two different starters. One is made to fit the smaller 153 tooth flywheels and flexplates, and the other one fits the larger 168 tooth flywheels and flexplates. In addition to that, there were at least 3 different load ratings for the early starters.

Number of teeth only changes pitch not the diameter, does it?

ttt

I run a new model 350 block thats definitely past 86 and the starter from my 78 fits in there perfect. Its got the staggered mounting style and I got a manual in the car

This is driving me insane... I looked at the starter myself and I know it will bolt up but comes no where near the flex plate. I bring it home and try it on mine and it fits perfect.

kik_start,

It's not just the pitch, the flywheels are two different sizes, requiring different starter noses. Flywheels are available in 12 3/4" 153 teeth, and 14" 168 teeth.
12 3/4" use a straight across bolt pattern, the 14" are offset.

John

Thanks for the information and replies.

It's a 10.5" clutch vs 11" clutch deal is all..

Everything has to match depending on the clutch being small or big..

Starter nose size and bolt stagger included..