I was just comparing the flexplate from my old 327 to the flexplate for my 383 (externally balanced 400 flexplate). The 400 flexplate is roughly 2 inches larger in diameter than the old 327 flexplate. Does this seem normal? To me it seems that my starter would need to be shimmed out quite a bit in order to handle the new flexplate. Does anyone have any experiences with this??

Externally balanced engines require the larger flex plate meaning the starter needs the "nose" to go with the f/p. Dealer would have these. Best route to go IMO b/c the noses are untouched, i.e., haven't been machined by rebuilders. Be sure to get the two long bolts to go with the starter nose.

So, you are saying that I can just get a new nose to the starter that I already have?

There are usually two sets of bolt holes on the block - an "outer" set and an "inner". try just using the outer with the bigger flywheel. No shims should be required. The old start may not line up with the outer set of holes though. but I don't remeber what the bolt pattern is on a factory style starter, it's been a while . . .

I would get an aftermarket high torque starter anyway, your 327 starter may not be up to the task of turning over your bigger engine. you'll have more room for headers with a gear reduction starter too.

I think staggered bolt pattern for the big wheel and straight across bolt pattern for the little wheel.

I got a heavi-duty stock 427/454 starter for my 406 SB that has the longer field coils. You can tell it by looking at the back of the starter where the field coil end comes through the case and fastens to the soleniod, (I think), b/c it will have a copper "tube" spacer there b/c the coils are longer.

pdq67