[WADS56]

Not sure if this helps any but this is a problem I had-
I put in a 11" ram clutch set up in my 79 mustang, but it used to have a 10 1/2" centerforce. When I got it all installed the starter was always in contact with the flywheel. I did not notice this untill about 5 minuts after the car running when it made a nasty grinding noise. I had to shim out the starter 1/2" to make it work and that created header clearence problems but that is a different story.
It seems kind of odd that it wouldn't reach the flywheel because the starter gear comes way out when the key is turned. It may be hitting the side of the flywheel and spinning and grinding and not making good contact. It is hard to tell though, it is something I would have to see.