[jwheel55]

Rick! That did occur to me but I did specify the 157 type ring gear and I have listed the part no. of the new starter as shown .Perhaps anyone with knowledge of part numbers would confirm that is the correct spec. The suppliers asked me this question and when I had the trouble I double checked the ring gear just in case.The pinion on the starter has a different number of teeth from the original but as it is a totally different starter I assumed it was part of the design. When I get time I'm going to remove some metal from the plate that locates the starter to the bell housing and see if I can get it to mesh more closely.There seems to be a reasonable amount of clearance around the bolt holes so there is some room for fine adjustment. A bit of a gamble but nothing ventured , nothing gained.
I just might need the source of a new plate. Thanks for your input, Jonny.