Starter upgrade

[montegut]

It looks like the starter on my GT is going bad and needs to be replaced. I read all the posts and watched YouTube videos to educate myself on the swap. I got the TYC gear reduction unit from Amazon that Jason and others on Pennocks have used. There were no shims with the starter. I assume this could be a problem as it looks like they usually need shimming. Any suggestions/comments? Thanks

[Fierofool]

Use the shim that's with the existing starter as a starting point.  I've replaced a few starters over the years, including a gear reduction unit on my 86.  I've always used the shim that was on the motor and haven't had any issues. 

[Raydar]

Second what Charlie posted. I've never needed a shim that wasn't also used on the original installation.
(I also bought a gear-reduction starter for one of my Fieros.)

[SpadeCustoms]

Not that it matters much at this point probably, but I used a grand prix 1.7kw starter and no shims with my 2.8 years ago. It probably wouldn't hurt to you the shims that came off the original, but the newer and smaller starter may not need them.