There are several choices when it comes to buying a performance starter. Powermaster has a wide range of choices to fit just about any application. Narrowing the choices down to exactly the right unit can be accomplished in three steps:

STEP 1

Torque Requirements

The torque output of a starter is the most important consideration. The starter must be able to spin the engine, and do it without overheating internally. Since there is no such thing as having too much torque -even on a street vehicle - a 200 ft.lb. starter will work for everyone. Speaking in general terms, a over 12:1 compression or higher engine should use a 200 ft.lb. starter. Engines up to 12:1 should use at least a 180 ft.lb. starter. 160 ft.lb. starters are good for engines up to 10.5:1.

One thing to keep in mind is that the torque characteristics of a starter are a function of its design. High voltage batteries or low internal resistance batteries will affect the kilowatt output of the starter by changing  the output speed but not the torque. Therefore, buy enough torque to begin with.

STEP 2

Fit

Of course for a starter to work, it must fit the application. Consider headers, oil pans, and the mounting points on the engine. What size ring gear do you have (for Chevy applications)? Does your Chevy block accommodate a straight mount starter, or is the only pattern drilled in the engine block for a diagonal or offset pattern starter? In racing, did the oil pan manufacturer lock you into a particular shape of starter? In your Ford application, is your ring gear 3/8” from the engine plate - indicating a typical manual transmission starter - or is it closer to a 3/4” -requiring a typical auto transmission unit? How tight are the headers around the starter? These are just some of the questions that will help you determine the right starter for your application.

STEP 3

Weight

Lastly, depending on the form of racing, the overall weight of the starter is a consideration.