[Mg-t] Alternate Starter for TD

[Stuart Keen]

Has anyone installed in their TD the modern starter made by Gustafsen
Machine of Glouchester, MA?

WHY?  Some of you have followed the mystery of my starter problem; why the
gnashing of starter pinion and ring gear teeth, originally quite infrequent
but now more prevalent. After an investigative search, I eventually
discovered that the ring gear had been installed BACKWARDS (beveled teeth
facing FORWARD), presumably in Jan 2000 when the engine was rebuilt by a
local mechanic. To correct this error would mean engine out and engine in,
the unbolt and rebolt of gearbox to engine which would give opportunity for
chipped paint, pinched wires, worn out bolt threads and miscellaneous,
unexplainable woes. There is an alternative solution (note: my TD is already
modified with 5 speed tranny, etc.). There is a modern starter made by
Gustafsen Machine that approaches the ring gear from the FRONT, not the rear
like the Lucas starter. This should work well with my ring gear installed
backwards. I have heard some good reports about these starters in other
British cars but does anyone know how well they perform in a TD? Curious
before I go this route.

Stu Keen
1951 MGTD MKII