Powerlite RAC472 Hi Torque Starter problem

[alanr]

Hi Eric,
Thanks for the information. So that perhaps seems to kybosh the theory of a different sump width doesn't it?

Well the latest is that Powerlite are now sending me (arriving Thursday) a RAC 472 MS version (muliti hole) to try. They don't they say have just a multi hole end plate lying around to send me. So I will then have two complete variants of the RAC472 side by side to choose from and see which fits best in my car.
I have had lots of emails and phone call discussions back and forth with them all coming up with different theories about the problem. My suggestion was a bespoke or modified end plate because I think their production tolerances are a just a bit too precise (CNC machined) but their Production Manager isn't willing to do this.

I will keep you posted on the outcome.

Alan.

[alanr]

All sorted!!!...My perseverance with Powerlite has paid off.
Powerlite sent me today a RAC472MS ( Multi hole) complete starter in addition to the standard fixed plate RAC472 starter that I purchased from them last week.
The difference in clearance is so much better. It took only a few minutes finding the best holes for the multi hole version and now all is good. The MS version now sits more straight and upright which makes a big difference to the clearance.
I now have 8-10mm clearance between the side terminal and the sump whereas before if you look at my previous photos I had no clearance at all between the heavy link wire ( solenoid and motor) and the side of the sump.
In my opinion Powerlite have got their standard RAC 472 unit end plate clocked wrong for our cars, well at least it is clocked wrong for my car.
See pics on the different clocking of the end plate needed to get the clearance.

Thanks folks for all the input, thoughts and suggestions on on this problem which is now completely sorted

Alan

[smo17003]

And looking on the bright side your new starter is even lighter.

[pharriso]

Tons of clearance now!

Congrats... go for a drive

[alanr]

Yes Powerlite came up trumps in the end.. They are swapping the standard unit purchased to the multi hole version at no cost at all to me. The standard unit goes back when they send me a courier collection label.
Happy days..

Alan.

[ericbushby]

Alan,
That is excellent, well done. It seems like you have discovered a weakness in there mounting design.
One hole or even half a hole of rotation would have given me some extra clearance as well without causing any obstruction on the other side.
I hope they are listening to you. They could make an excellent product a little bit better. Feel free to quote me if it helps.
Cheers
Eric in Burnley
1967 S3SE DHC

[alanr]

Alan,
That is excellent, well done. It seems like you have discovered a weakness in there mounting design.
One hole or even half a hole of rotation would have given me some extra clearance as well without causing any obstruction on the other side.
I hope they are listening to you. They could make an excellent product a little bit better. Feel free to quote me if it helps.
Cheers
Eric in Burnley
1967 S3SE DHC

Thanks Eric,Will do.
The standard unit isn't quite right as it is.

Alan.