Bristol 403 Modernising Starter Motor

[Colin from Hull]

Hi I've been told that some owners have fitted pre-engaged starter motors, so can someone please share which starter i should be buying. I have conflicting information on the number of teeth on the pinion is 8 or 9

Thanks
Colin

[MTH 411]

I think you will find the one fitted to the Ital matches, also Sherpa vans

Mike

[Colin from Hull]

Hi I will search those vehicles......would you have anymore details please?

[Geoff Kingston]

Mike is right and you can add marina and mgb to the list, they are 9 tooth pre engaged units and following the very good article John Lawley wrote about this in Bodacious some years back I bought 3 off a Kent based supplier on ebay about a year apart as I bought a second 401 so the price did go up a bit. I will try and have a look at my file over the weekend as the supplier provided a good lists of alternative makers and part numbers of unit that fitted these cars and the Bristol. If you are a BODA member you will be able to find Johns original article and a follow up in the Bodacious archive and probably further information in the resources section. A quick eBay check identified at least two suppliers able to provide suitable starter motors for well under £100 which is far better value than some of the high speed, high torque, high price starter motors on offer for classic cars.
Geoff.

[Colin from Hull]

Hi Geoff
Thanks for the reply and information, I am member of BODA.


Colin

[David C]

Powerlite offer model 401 for the 6 cylinder Bristol which is 1KW, 4Kg and positive or negative earth. About £250. Also 531 which is 1.3KW, 2.4Kg and negative earth only. About £360. Unlike the 401 it has a cowl around the pinion per the original Lucas unit. I wonder what the difference is that makes it around half the weight.
The Wosp LMS037 is similar to the Powerlite 401 but more powerful at 1.4KW. 3.7Kg, positive or negative earth with no cowl.
I bought a Wosp unit from JP Racing for about £240 but am waiting until I have time to fit a new ring gear so can't yet comment on how good it is.