starter woes?

[blown69nova]

I am in desperate need of help, I'm using a fresh 2000 350 block for my new setup and can't get the starter to mesh properly!
I'm using the same starter and flexplate (168t) from last year, the only thing that has changed is the block. I tried all of the starters they list for a 00 c/k truck (the source of my block) as well as the one I have used on a couple 383's.
I have tried shimming it up to .120" and the starter gear still won't retract like it is too tight. Also tried shimming more on one side than the other to no avail.
Anyone have this problem, or ideas? Please help a brother out!
Thanks, Steve

[Madspeed]

do this
Take the solinoid off the starter.
make shure that the plunger is not to big, there is a couple different ones long short large diam and small diam
If you have a large plunger in a small plunger solinoid id bet it would stick( im not even shure the fat one will fit in the small solinoid)


Now if thats not it then
With the transmission out or engine out.
Leave the solinoid off and put the starter back in
Pull the plunger out
make shure that the tooth on the starter is the middle tooth in the flywheel< what I mean is that the starter tooth is one in and 2 are on the starter from the flywheel.
shim as needed to get about .060 between the teeth, You should double check my tooth contact dimensions as i do this by eye now.
Contact should be about 70% to 75%
Once you get that done pull the starter back out and put the solinoid back on and reinstall it.
Pull the coil wire or whatever to keep the engine from actually starting and crank it and listen to it.
It should not sound loud or groan.
If it sounds good run it =)
Oh and Do not forget to install the starter brace on the back of the starter to the block. I goes from the stud on the back plate of the starter to the block if you dont have one Get one.

There ya go, I charge 500 to 600 bucks to adjust a starter and that includs a new starter and sfi flexplate with a warenty =)

Gl Ken F
if you need further help Pm me ill give ya my number to call me

[blown69nova]

Thanks for the reply, I will go back out Sat. morning and try to get this straight.
Steve

[Madspeed]

Np hope my info is usefull for ya.
i will be around all weekend if you need and i do check this site daily so holla if you need more info

Gl. Ken F