Are there different starters for an Automatic v Manual?

[ambigu0us]

Hey all! My buddy and I just switched out the automatic tranny for a 5 speed manual. We started the car up and heard a continuous thumping/grinding (?) noise. We're thinking it may be that the starter is misaligned, but I'm wondering if the starter for an automatic is different than one for a manual?

Does anyone know if this is true or have any suggestions?

Thanks!!!

[Diseazd]

I just put a 5 speed in my 73 auto car. The starter that was in the car (original starter) works perfect with the 5 speed.

[Darrel]

When you took off the flexplate, did you also take off the spacer that was on the end of the crank shaft?

[260 z]

I have a 74 260z with the original 4 speed in it. There is a spacer

(about 1/8 "thick) between the transmission and the block.

[Bruce Palmer]

So it sounds like with that spacer left in from the flexplate, perhaps the teeth on the flywheel are contacting the bellhousing? Noise should stop once the ring gear teeth chew clear thru the bellhousing. Nyuck nyuck