zwede

Got a bit bored and did a short clip of how the late model starter works cranking my '71 454. Even managed to add a fading title screen (I'm very proud of that). If I figure out how to add some lens flare it will be the end of JJ Abrams.

Paul L

OK, I'll bite. What is a PMGR starter? I need a starter for my 1974 350 come spring. What is the acronym?

zwede

Permanent Magnet Gear Reduction. GM switched to them in the 90's. No heat soak, 8 lbs, available at any auto parts store. I have the staggered mounting bolts so don't think it fits yours. But you should be able to use one from a late model small block.

Eljay

Wow, I wasn't sure if it was the camera or your driveway that was that steep, don't let your car roll away!

zwede

It's steep. And believe it or not, but the p-brake will hold!

carjack007

Thanks, Very nice clip...

Rebelrob

Zwede, car looks great and sounds nasty.
Do you have the original Mark IV block?
Anything custom about this starter? Does if just bolt right up to the BB, any shims?
Also what does the stock starter weigh? I know its more than 8 lbs. And are these any different than the aftermarket hi-torque mini starters?

zwede

Yes, it has the factory block.

Starter is stock. Got it at Autozone as they have a lifetime warranty. I used that warranty as the first one started cranking slow after 10 years.

The late model bolts that hold the starter to the block are 10mm, vs 3/8" (9.5 mm) on the Mark IV. Two options:

1) Use the special bolts that GM sells with 3/8" thread, 10 mm shank.
2) Buy 3/8" thin-wall brass tubing at the HW store and use it as an insert.

I picked #2 as back when I got mine GM didn't have the bolts yet.

I didn't need any shims.

I believe I weighed mine at 15 lbs, but it was a long time ago. Memory is fuzzy.

As for differences to the aftermarket ones... personal preference, I guess. I prefer using GM stuff when it fits my needs. Also have a lifetime warranty.

jr9170

Swede, your 454 sounds great.Any engine pics you can post ?

zwede

It's not quite stock.

jr9170

speedreed8

Sweet, Zwede! I use that same type starter on my 355. works great....

Shark Racer

Another PMGR starter. I have a video of mine starting but it fired in half a crank so it doesn't really get an opportunity to spin like yours does. IIRC it sounds very similar. 10.2:1 SBC 400ci. (4.125x3.75)

Rebelrob

It does seem like it sounds a bit different than the stock starter. I honestly have never had any complaints with the re-manufac model I have now. I think it carries a lifetime warranty also from Oreillys. I was worried about heat soak, since that was a problem on my Camaro with headers. I now have Hedman/coated headers with 10.5 CR BB 21* initial timing and so far, no issues. It is heavy. Updating the starter and adding Wilwood Calipers, would be right at a 50 lbs weight savings.
I assume this starter accepts the original wiring/connections. No mods required.

zwede

Yes. the exception is the 'S' terminal of the stock starter that is only used with the factory points distributor. The new starter doesn't have that terminal. If you have HEI you don't use that terminal.