I just installed a aftermarket hi torque stater to my 327. The stock starter that came off had 9 teeth on the pinion gear. The new starter has 11 teeth and would not mesh/release with my 153 tooth flexplate without dropping the starter to close to 1/4". Shims are .015" and I'm not sure if installing even 4 shims will allow the pinion to drop enough to work.

I'm going to try to locate shims tomorrow, but would like any opinions that may get me on track! Thanx much, Chuck

Follow up: it took (1) 1/16", (2) 1/32" and (1) 1/64" shims to get the proper mesh clearance.

I know that's a bit heavy on shims, but I can stick a small paper clip between teeth mesh with a lot of drag and starts every time.

there is a angry, Chrysler product whine, but that may be from the gear reduction?? Any comments are dearly welcome....thanx much, Chuck