Re: 1954 359 Leaves me sit... again

Posted by HH56 On 2022/11/12 19:22:58

As Don said, it should bolt up to the block. Because the regular 54 starter pinion can be the type moved into mesh by the Bendix and the 356 starter is the shift type where the pinion is moved into mesh mechanically by the solenoid I would advise comparing the distance the pinion moves out on both to make sure the dimensions are fairly close. Too short a throw and the pinion may barely mesh with the ring gear, too long and the hub on the rear of the pinion may hit. Also, if you are running 12v I would not advise it as the 356 solenoid will overheat and be damaged as well as having a good possibility the strong throw out action could crack or break the nose casting. These starters are becoming rare and can be very expensive.

The 356 solenoid also utilizes a built in relay to bring in the actual solenoid so it has two small screw terminals brought out for the relay coil connections. If the starter is something sold "as is" off ebay then depending on what year 356 engine you will need to check very carefully to make sure there is not a tiny painted over almost invisible strap type jumper connecting one of the relay screw terminals to the large battery terminal. If you find one remove it. With both relay terminals empty one of them will need to be grounded and the wire coming from the starter switch will go on the other.