Need some help with a new starter

[SWE_lollo03]

So i bought a new starter because the old wrong one wouldn't fit with my new headers because the solenoid was in the way. So i got the new one and everything looked like it would fit perfectly at first but ones i put the starter in, the hole in the bellhousing is too small and the bolt holes on the starter were too far apart so does anyone know how far apart the bolt holes are and how big the hole in the bellhousing is?

 

[RonD]

Probably not but what engine is in your 1988 Ranger, 2.9l V6 or 2.3l I4

 

[SWE_lollo03]

It's the 2.9 v6 with the a4ld automatic transmission

 

[RonD]

These are slightly smaller for use with headers: https://shop.broncograveyard.com/Ranger-28_29L-Gear-Reduction-Starter/productinfo/88660/

Not sure if shipping cost will make it too expensive

No I don't have the hole or bolt separation diagrams, should be able to get that off original starter, unless its been core swapped already

 

[Paulos]

The bolt holes in a 2.9 starter are approximately 5-3/16" center to center. I don't have an extra rear engine plate, so I can't measure the hole the starter goes into. But the raised section on the starter that fits into the hole is approximately 4-3/32" O.D., so I would think the hole in the engine plate would be around 4-1/8."

 

[SWE_lollo03]

Well crap then somebody has changed the bellhousing because i only have 4" center to center on the bellhousing

 

[Paulos]

I checked Rock Auto's listings and they only show one starter for the 2.9. The 2.3 and 2.0 have a 3 bolt starter. Here's what I measured on an old 2.9 starter that I recently changed.

 

[Paulos]

These are slightly smaller for use with headers: https://shop.broncograveyard.com/Ranger-28_29L-Gear-Reduction-Starter/productinfo/88660/

When I finally get around to rebuilding my 2.9 I plan on using this starter with my SS JBA's.