Gear Reduction Starter question...

[LucklessPedestrian]

So... as mentioned in my recent forum introduction, I have begun the work of putting my '81 Spider back on the road after 5+ years of storage. One of the issues the car had before I put it up was a failing starter (would only occasional work, with a very high current draw), so I plan to replace it. I pulled the starter a couple days ago (miserable job) and managed to barely fish it out the bottom through the steering gear. I'm thinking of replacing it with one of those gear reduction types as I've read many favorable opinions here and other places. My question is... will the reduction starter's physical dimensions make it any more difficult to fish it back in than the original?... I could barely squeeze the old one out, and would rather not disassemble other parts of the car to get a new one in... Input appreciated...

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Totally agree with you about the pain and misery associated with removing/installing the stock starter motor. Although I don't have a gear reduction starter, I think the general consensus is that these are much, much (did I say much?) easier to install/remove, and they work better. A worthy upgrade in my opinion.

Why don't I have a gear reduction starter? Apparently, pain and misery are my preference. Perhaps one day.

-Bryan

[bobplyler]

It's a LOT easier to put in.

[fiat218]

Piece of cake to put in

[TX82FIAT]

Much easier to put the smaller gear reduction in then get the old out. For some comfort. I've been running a gear reduction starter for 14 years with no issues at all. Knock on wood and then knock on wood again for writing that.

[Fredvr]

Hi Guys,
Sounds a good upgrade, would you be kind enough to give the model(s) you have used?
Thanks in advance.