gear reduction starter

I am having a problem with my starter. It is bottom mounted on a BBC. The starter is not working. I believe it was an auto starter, and I was planning on replacling it with a proper marine starter. When it did work, the start was very rough - there was a fairly loud grinding sound when the starter engaged with the fly wheel. I've heard 2 different suggestions. 1 - get a gear reduction starter and 2 - i need to add shims to the starter until the grinding stops. What is the benefit of a gear reduction starter? Thanks in advance.

[rchevelle71]

It is probably already a gear reduction starter, just did one on my SBC, do not use an automotive one, possibility of going BOOM!!!!

Here is where I found the best prices.

http://www.iboats.com/boatproducts/mallsearch/starter

[Cord]

What do the teeth look like?

the teeth look clean on both the starter and flywheel

[ragtop409]

well I like the GM gear reduction one so much I put one on my BBC in my burb. yes a marine unit

[Reed Jensen]

Ahhhh---soooo! another chinese knock-off....

[RedDog382]

I have two Merc starters off 454 Mag (Mark IV). Not gear reduction, but will make you a deal on one or both. PM me if you are interested.