starter questions

[pflaming]

1. I have to push the starter post to the fire wall to start the engine. The starter arm has a hole in it. Is there some sort of extension / button that goes on that arm to close the distance. I have always disliked the Dodge starter post.

2. What is involved to put on a starter that is 'buttom / switch' activated such as is used on the cars?

[JBNeal]

I had a similar problem with the '48, it turns out the switch contacts on the starter were corroded and stomping on the starter pedal put enough pressure on the switch to get continuity. Eventually I replaced the switch with an adjustable one similar to the one shown. The button on the switch screws in & out to adjust the travel distance on the starter pedal.

Converting the original foot starter to a push-button starter sounds kinda interesting. A starter relay & starter solenoid would be required, but I tellya whut, I like the foot starter when it's working properly cuz it can be customized as an anti-theft device. The first time I got my '48 inspected, that stupid kid nearly twisted the key off in the ignition before I hustled over to him to show how the truck actually started.

[Dave72dt]

You would need to convert the starter to a full threaded post, install a solenoid and button, some wiring to convert to button start or change the switch to a modern type with the start position built in to eliminate the start button. You woulldn't need the relay because the solenoid would do that job for you, carrying the heavy amps.