32RH Starter question

[acfortier]

So, I'm putting a 32RH from a '92 YJ in my '86 Eagle. Eagle has the 4.2L, a '92 YJ would have had the 4.0.

 

I had to use the flexplate from the YJ since the one in the Eagle had some damaged teeth. The YJ one has the tone ring for the CPS, but it's obv. not needed for the Eagle.

 

Do I need to replace the starter as well?

[acfortier]

Hmm, I think the answer is yes, according to this thread: https://forums.amceaglesden.com/index.php?topic=43513.0

 

Seems like the 4.0 flexplates are 3/8" closer to the engine, so there could be an engagement issue using the start from the 4.2L. I'm going to go to the parts store to compare the two tomorrow.

[acfortier]

Compared the two starters. The 4.2L starter definitely engages further into the transmission than the 4.0L. It might actually work, if the gear is physically long enough, or it could overshoot the flexplate.

 

Either way, I got the 4.0L starter since I don't want to risk messing up the flexplate I have, lol