[straight6chevyguy]

Hi guys, just got my new 250 installed in my 1976 c10.
for whatever reason I decided to install my starter after I got the engine in the truck. So I crawled under the truck and went to bolt it up and then had the realization that I had problems.
So I bought a different starter went to bolt that up and and came to the bigger realization that I REALY had problems!
So my starter is the one that came off my original engine block (had a cracked water jacket)
My new engine block is I believe a 1969 block.
The truck has the 4 speed Manual transmission.

So I guess there are several ways chevrolet mounted starters to these engines over the years, I did not have a clue they did this and just thought fitment was all the same, Here's what I now know thus far...

My original block had the the starter bolted to the block with an OFFSET bolt pattern.
My New block has holes for a starter in the block but uses a Straight bolt pattern (bolts directly across from another)

So on the parts websites I see for a 1969 c10 with a 250 two starter options,
a starter with a straight bolt pattern listed as for use with an AUTOMATIC transmission.

And a starter that bolts to the BELLHOUSING instead of the Block listed as for use with a MANUAL transmission.

I foolishly think "oh one with a straight bolt pattern, that's what I need, it says for automatic but whatever" and I buy it.

So today I go to put my new starter on... NOPE! Not gonna fit.

Im thinking my only option at this point is change out the bellhousing for one that the starter will bolt directly to unless somebody out there knows of a starter that will work with my newer manual transmission bellhousing and fly wheel and bolt to the block with the straight bolt pattern.

Getting a different bellhousing isn't such a big deal but my Brother and I spent a weekend putting that engine and transmission in the truck and it makes me mad to think I will have to pull it all apart again.

Anyone have any suggestions?