Two steps forward and one back. I tried to use the mini starter I had on my stock bellhousing on my 440. Switching to a Lakewood 13553 (I bought it before the smaller quicktime unit was out, many years ago) for the new hemi build. The starter drops into the hole on the plate, but the lower bolt hole doesn't come close to lining up. The upper hole seams close. I haven't looked into the housing to see if the gear is lined up with the flywheel (130 tooth with twin disc McLeod cluthc assembly).

Any ideas? I wanted to go with a blow proof for additional insurance if anything should come apart. Car is primarily street with some occasional strip trips on street tires.


Second question, I took a look and there is no hole for the nose of the starter to key into. I recall reading that if the nose of the mini starters are not supported, the casting breaks off as the shaft deflects. Is there a bolt in ring or something to support the nose of the starter?

There is a service kit, but good luck finding one. It consists of a centering cup and attaching bolt for the nose, and an offset bracket for the lower starter bolt. Most times, I just fabricate up my own parts. Once you get the nose cone in place, you can judge the length you need to make the lower bracket. Two bolts and a thick piece of flat stock will work.
If you use a 143t flywheel, you can use the holes that are already in the housing. No need for adapters. I have an 8 bolt Ram aluminum wheel that I would sell you.

OK, I see what the service kit looks like. Summit has a picture but not available anymore. I don't really see how the starter offset works. I think I will install the stock bell housing in for now. Summer is partly over and the car is still in a million pieces.

Will the newer quick time housing fit up better?