Scott, Gene, don't feel bad. I had to lift my engine as high as I could and still it was tough on one side. What was really tough was putting on the damn starter with the headers on. That top bolt is a sob. I didn't figure the headers would go in with the starter on, so I didn't install it until later.....if this starter ever goes out I'm going to try to find one of those small light gear type starters, that stock one is heavy.
Not joking here.I have never insalled a set of Hookers but everyone seems to have a hard time with them.My 1 7/8" Headmans slip right on and off without a fight,even the starter is very accessible,and i have a oversized bell housing to boot(Lakewood scattershield).
I have the Black Jack headers and I have plenty of clearance for my starter also. I just have to lift the engine to have them...
When I was getting my motor ready to drop in, I realized from the get-go that the headers would have to stay off till I dropped the motor in. I had put the headers on the motor on the stand to see how they fit and noticed the starter would be a b**ch to get to. So I put it on before. Thank goodness I noticed that!
I have been looking at those smaller starters for my new engine. I took the starter off once when I had the headers on...I will not do that again.
hey a quick note on starters, the starter off 93 to 95 mustangs and any other 5.0 or 5.8 equiped ford is a small light high tourque starter. they are relitively cheap compared to the aftermarket ones. they fit really well with headers.