starter brace

[scott gunderson]

was wondering if anyone could tell me what size bolt i can use to attach the starter brace to the block (327) not having any luck, just bought a brace for the starter, not having any starter problems, maybe dont need the brace?

[Wayne P.]

Re: starter brace

1/4-20X 1/2 I think, if my memory isn't shot.

[Gary Bishop]

Re: starter brace

If you have the Brace, put it on, just in case. They are too heavy to hang on just two bolts at the other end.

[scott gunderson]

Re: starter brace

wayne, thanks for your response, the bolt is too small yet, the block is a 1968 if that makes a difference,

[Joe L.]

Re: starter brace

Scott-----

The starter brace-to-block retaining bolt is 5/16-18 thread and about 1/2" long. You definitely want to use the brace. It was there originally, it's supposed to be there and it needs to be there.

[Chuck S.]

Re: starter brace

Scott, try a 5/16" coarse thread bolt 1/2" or 3/4" long. That was my first impression when I read your post, but I didn't know for sure so I didn't post. Maybe we can figure it out by elimination. That short length in 5/16" coarse thread may be hard to find; check the automotive fasteners at your local auto part stores.

Sometimes trial and error will provide an answer quicker than asking others. Year of the block will make no difference in this case.

[scott gunderson]

Re: starter brace

thanks much to everyone, i did have the 5/16 in but didnt want to force it so thought i would just double check as i could not find it in any of my books. taking my time going over the whole car and correcting any items that need repair or replacing, cold weather is moving in so hope to get it on the road a few more times, scott

[Mike McKown]

Re: starter brace

If you're having trouble getting the bolt started in the block, take it all the way loose from the stud on the starter. Start the bolt in the block and then swing the brace down on the starter stud. It should go, if it doesn't loosen the two vertical starter bolts. Tighten the the two verticals first, the 5/16ths to the block and then the nut on the starter.

[John H.]

Re: starter brace

The upper attaching bolt is 5/16"-18 x 1/2", into the tapped hole in the small raised boss on the block. YES, you need the brace - many "mechanics" don't replace them when they change starters ('cuz it takes five more minutes), and leaving it off just means you'll buy the next starter sooner. The brace supports the heaviest part of the starter; without it, all that weight is cantilevered from the starter nose casting, and it wasn't designed to carry that kind of load.

[Clem Z.]

Re: starter brace

if you ever watched a starter motor while cranking a hi comp BBC without the brace you would know why it is there.

[scott gunderson]

Re: starter brace

thanks so much john and mike, everyone on this site have been terrific, i have learned so much in the short time since i have been here,i tell my brother all the time about all the people here, he wishes he could find a good forum like this one for his 69 opel gt. i always check the profiles and am very impressed with all the accomplishments of the people here.