khyatt

Is there a replacement starter that doesn't require shims?

zwede

Shims are not dictated by the starter but by the engine block. If the old starter didn't use shims the new one shouldn't either. I'm using a PowerMaster mini starter on my 454 and didn't need shims.

ajrothm

Most of the "Hitachi" style mini-starters with the nose cone over the starter gear will not need shims. Many of the race style mini starters with the adjustable mounting block will need block shims and depth shims on the starter motor itself. You'll have to play with them to make them work usually. I had a TCI, a Summit brand, and a Hamburger starter....They all had issues with start gear clearance..... Part store Hitachi starter went right in with no shims and starts/sounds great.

It all depends on how lucky you are....LOL

j-wave

Which PowerMaster starter are you using? My LS5 still has the stock headers so the fitment is tight - as you may know. Are there several PowerMaster starters that will fit? My compression ratio is around 11 or 12:1.

Jebbysan

I have installed over 15 of these and never needed a shim ever........not sure if I can fully explain that....but it is true. I believe it has little to do with the crank centerline and starter pad relationship than it does crappy tolerances on Delco style starters.
Best damn aftermarket starter available IMHO and not the most expensive either.

CVR 5323 CVR Protorque Starters | Summit Racing

Jebby

zwede

When I searched on Summit they show 33 Powermaster starters for C3s. No idea why they need so many models!

Anyway, I have the cheapest one, the 9100. 5 years old now and still works perfectly.