2.3L ('02-'11) Flexplate and Starter alignment

[moparownr]

I am working on a 2008 2wd Ranger, It came to me with a new engine installed (unfortunately not correctly). I am looking for information concerning the flex plate, is there a spacer behind it? the starter is in constant contact with the flex plate. I don't know if the flex plate is bent, and I do not have one to compare it to. Also if its bent it bent perfectly around as it runs true with no wobble. If there is a spacer, does anyone have a part number for it? Thanks in advance for any help.


Jeff

 

[Shran]

Auto trans? I have only worked on trucks up to about 1999 or so but the auto trans trucks all have spacers. Sonax sells them. I imagine the newer ones do too but I haven't dug into one that far yet.

 

[moparownr]

I know the 4.0 has one, but this truck is a 2.3l duratec

 

[pjtoledo]

can you define constant contact?
is the gear extended or retracted?
is it stuck in the extended position?
how many teeth are on the starter?

 

[moparownr]

can you define constant contact?
is the gear extended or retracted?
is it stuck in the extended position?
how many teeth are on the starter?

The starter is new and correct in the retracted position, it meshes with the flexplate about 1/8 inch.

I was looking to find out about a flexplate spacer, I contacted my local Ford dealer with the VIN number, and found that there is no spacer on the 2.3l engine. I then asked about the flexplate and they printed out a picture of a new one, then I compared to the one on the truck, I could then see clearly that the one in the truck has been bent forcing the tooth ring closer to the starter. I pick the new one tomorrow I'll install and post results then.

 

[moparownr]

Update:. I got a new flexplate and installed it it has perfect clearance with the starter. Obviously the old flex plate was bent. All is good reinstall transmission tomorrow. Thank all of you for your words of wisdom and your help.