Top mount starter

[dyam]

When you go to a top mount do you need to change the ring gear on the flywheel to a special one or is it the same? I read something about a "reverse ring gear type flywheel" on the Rex Marine site.
I'm having trouble destroying starters.
HELP!!
Thanks
Dean

[ONAROLL]

Dean, I cant answer your question about a reverse drive ring being available, but I use standard flexplates with reverse drive starters and have had no problems.

[dyam]

Thanks for the reply.
That's what I thought. I had a top mount put into my boat about three years ago. Damaged the ring gear last year( hydrolocked the motor and tried to tap the starter- it went clunk clunk and chewed up some teeth). I had the ring gear replaced and since then it's been the starter has been louder and I've destroyed three starters in a year. Two in three trips. The top mounts only mount one way so I can't shim it (thought maybe that was the problem but it can't be).
I'm going to give Rex Marine a call today and pick their brain.
Thanks again.
Dean

[dyam]

They're closed today. I guess I'll call tomorrow.