MSD 5096 DynaForce Starter, GM LS1-LS7 Engines Installation - Manual (Page 2)

2 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
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4. With the starter installed, check the clearance
between the ring gear and the edge of the pinion
gear (Figure 2). There should be at least 1/16".
It is recommended to check this clearance in at
least three places around the ring gear.
• If there is not enough clearance, you will need
to install the supplied shim kit by removing the
mounting block (Figure 3). Place the small
shim ring in the bearing bore and install the
outer shim on the support housing. Reinstall
the mounting block. This will move the pinion
gear into the starter approximately 0.060".
5. To check the pinion gear mesh, gently pry the
gear out to engage to the ring gear. (Sometimes
the pinion will not retract. This is normal.) Insert
a wire gauge as shown in Figure 4. As a gauge,
a standard 1.25" paperclip could be used as
they generally are about .035" in diameter. There
should be .020"-.035" clearance between the ring
gear tooth and the pinion gear.
• If there is not enough clearance, install one
of the supplied shims and check again.
• If there is too much clearance, install a shim
under the outer bolt only. This will tighten the
clearance.
6. Connect the switch wire to the ignition terminal.
This wire should be 12-gauge (Figure 5).
7. Attach the battery cable. The size of the battery
cable depends on its length. Using the proper
gauge wire is important to the operation of the
starter. Both the positive and ground wires must
be able to meet the demands of the starter. The
chart in Figure 5 shows the recommended sizes.
Be sure to route the wire away from the exhaust
and moving parts of the engine.
8. Connect the battery terminals and start the
engine.
IMPORTANT: Never operate a starter for more than
30 seconds at a time without letting
it cool for at least two minutes.
Figure 4 Checking Gear Mesh.
Figure 3 Installing the Pinion Shim Spacers.
INSTALL OUTER
SHIM
SHIM
RING
Figure 2 Checking Pinion Clearance.