Starter options?

[krave]

I have a 1961 with a 390..I am thinking im going to change out the starter..sometimes it doesn't work..I hit the key and the starter spins just not the engine.once it(starter) stops spinning I hit the key again and its fine..I am wondering if anyone has any other options other then the 1961 starter..is there any smaller,lighter, better,etc... options..

Thanks....Gary

[62birdman]

Check some of the aftermarket suppliers. I know MSD makes a small hi performance starter, Powermaster, as well. I don't know if they make one for the FE. Check with Summit, or Jegs.

[truesteve]

Try Robb MC Performance - Ford Y-Block/Early FE Gen II Mini-Starter – PN 3026, 1958-1964 Ford 331-428 Series FE V8 with 153 Tooth ring gear - $269.00

This is not an endorsement of Robb's product, as the one I received last week has not been installed or tried on a cold morning. It is supposed to be a direct bolt on for the stock 153 teeth ring gear, and adjustable by rotating to assist in installation with headers. Kind of expensive, but if it saves skin from the knuckles, is 4 lbs lighter, and works on the cold mornings...I guess it's worth it.

[GeoffInCarlsbad]

I ordered the same starter from McRobb and getting prepared to install it. From another thread with bbogue, it sounds very straightforward. I'll post some pics removing original and installing; but I guess I do have a question. The original starters have a dowel the has a drive starter on it.

The new starter does not have that. I believe the drive starter goes on the dowel with the gear toward the starter motor. I am wonderin what is/was the purpose of mounting a separte Starter Drive (PN 11350) over the Starter Moto (PN 11002)