the 1st thing i would do is check the rotating force needed to bar the new engine over by hand using a beam style tq wrench
Update on installing a DB Electric High Torque starter part #3223 in my 72 Pre-L. I completed the project last night.. Amazed at the torque of DB vs the old Motorcraft starter. I would like to especially thank Larry and Ron for their comments and advice. They were very informative and without their advice installing would have taken twice the time and much frustration... Thanks. If anyone plans to replace their old stock starter suggest you heed the suggestions in this forum post. I connected cables exactly the way Ron suggested and his pics really helped. Even though a pain to complete the project, especially disassembling the stock starter in place so it could be removed, I’m very glad I replaced. The new DB Starter was $47 plus free shipping, has twice the torque than old starter and no more hot start issues. .....Also, not sure how you could ever install a full size stock starter without pulling off the header or pulling the engine..... thanks, Ron Witt
Hi..very nice insight..on the how to do it. electric to me no issue, studs no issue I understand bouble "NUTING", is all Euro DIN.....BUT:: (looks we got a sunny Day tomorrow in old D land, good to work in the open garage..)
Question: can I get the old starter out without removing the engine fixtures or need to lift the engine..
Tx
Matthias
Hi, don't see how you can remove or install a new stock starter without removing headers or lifting engine. I tried for about a hour moving starter in different angles and couldn't get through header pipes towards wheel area which is largest opening. I can't find any forum articles about removing/installing stock starter. Ron's pics and comments in this link confirmed issue, and his suggestion to take apart in place. The DB started is much smaller, more powerful and breeze to install. I also have a Pantera tech manual and little to no information on how to replace stater….. Rocky was also very helpful with his comments, he might have advice or experience with replacing....Have fun..
Tx ronwitt
HEADERS IS A NO GO...as they go on aluminium heads took me a day per side..with levers and tricks
Any other thoughts /experience please....!!
1) so far ONLY lifting ENGINe & Gear box (???) is an option ...is a mess as well !
if the studs are out does this any help?
2) ....except GRINDING IT DOWN..2 cases of German beer needed..
Please more insight!
Matthias
Hi Matthias,
Maybe Larry, Ron, Rocky or others have a few suggestions. The studs to me were not the issue... Just not enough clearance to get through header pipes, no room to down between frame, and certainly can't go up... I assume you are replacing with a stock size starter?...Not sure exactly where you live, but might think how you can get a DB starter and take the old one apart in place. If you want a stock starter probably have to lift up engine, if headers are not a drop option?? Again, maybe others have a few suggestions for you...sorry. Ron
Ronwitt
I have a hight torque starter on the desk (hand import from US in November, was until now to cold to do, it sits on my workshop desk, was tesdeed and works!!) .
is mainly the question on how to get the old sucker out,...
I can disasseble it, in place and grind the rest our (WHAT A MESS) ..etc. as the sucker goes to junkjard. ASAP.
do not want to tak e starter out until I know the HOW EASY TO DO IT, as all working fine on COOLD, when HOT same issue as bove, high comp engine 10.5:1, runs top class..
Matthias
Slightly off topic. I also run a Pgmr starter from DB electrical and its been superb, not a single issue in 6 years. I now need a similar hi torque starter for an early 70s 351w with auto transmission. Despite a couple of emails to DB I have not had a response. If anyone has ordered one for A/T can you supply me with the part number or correct item to order either from DB or ebay.
Horace
pretty sure this is the one but confirm
Thanks for the reply. I looked at that particular one however it seems to specify 92 onwards 351W. I need it for a 1970 Cougar 351w with FMX Auto trans so can't be sure for certain it does fit. For some reason DB electrical do not respond to my emails enquiring if it does or if not which is the correct one.
Too late once it gets here to the UK to find its the wrong one. Can't cost effectively send it back for exchange.
Are all 351w with A/T the same or what changed from 92 onwards
Horace
because their application fitment info is direct fit / OEM not retrofit. apparently the mini starters came out in 1992, anything before that you'll get the old style starter because that's what came from the factory. the starter is what changed