We recently changed over to a power glide using a JW bell and flywheel. We used all the correct parts and ended up having to space the starter out about a half inch. Is that the way it's supposed to be? Are there some starters that work better than others? We currently have a msd mini starter on it. It works but is hard to keep it tight. Thanks

Mine only took 3 of their shims 1/2 seems like a lot. So are you using the JW wheel and their adaptor flange?

Yes we used the wheel and crank adaptor

1/2" seems excessive, I had to space my starter out .120 and I thought that was a lot, I use a CVR starter

I ditched the supplied shims and made 2 1/4" thick spacers for a total of 1/2" to get it right. Used their crank adapter and flexplate. MP Denso starter and small block if it makes a difference.

Mopar mini starter and I only had to use 2 provided shims. I have to tighten mine after every outing..If it wasn't alum I would just loctite it.

Yes,.. .approximately 1/2" thick spacer is what I needed to engage the PowerMaster starter motor to the JW flexplate along with the JW Ultrabell using a PG. You are using a 1/4" motor as well correct?

I used 3 of there shims with a MP mini starter.

I have the same problem - but there is not space with the Megablock for either one of my mini starters.
I have a Reactor plate and JW bell w/glide- I used a factory starter over the weekend with about 1/2" worth of spacer to do some testing.... the starter only put up with 5 starts - then committed suicide...
I have a motor plate - are you guys using the little extension bushing that came with the JW bell for the nose of the starter ??

I used the supplied bushing and 1/2" worth of spacers. 2 1/4" thick spacers, rather than a bunch of shims, on the MP starter. Worked fine for me. My mid-plate was relieved to allow the starter to bolt directly against the bell.

Yup, I was looking at that as well... I think I'm going to give my mid plate a trim. I still can't decide if I want to grind on my Megablock to clear the high torque starters I have or just buy yet another one to fit.

Still sucks that you have to add that much spacer. I think once I figure out the exact thickness, I'm going to make one on the mill so I have a one-piece spacer.

A lot of things will affect this..Just shim it the needed amount and run it! We have been from no shims to almost 3/4" out over the years. There is no consistency in ring gear placement or sometimes even crank flange placement with some stuff. It is what it is you wont hurt anything just shim it and forget it.

Yep, shim as necessary. I put the factory stud in the upper hole to make installing the starter easier, have to use an index-able starter as the frame rail is right there (tube chassis - altered).