Ringleader

Don't quote me on this, because I'm just thinking logically here...but the starter should turn the opposite direction of the engine when running. If you're at the front looking at the crank pulley, and it's turning clockwise, I would assume the starter is turning counter clockwise, since that's what it would take to turn the engine when starting. I hope that makes sense. I haven't paid attention to the orientation of the starter on these trucks, but regardless, it should turn opposite of the flywheel/flex plate.
I would bet money that when you put that bolt back in and start to put some torque into it, the JB will give away. That said, if the bell is cast, I'm not sure it can be welded, either. Not sure on the specifics of cast metals.
In my thinking, I wouldn't imagine it's as big of a deal as it seems. I mean, there are several bolts attaching it to the engine, and it's a static piece, not moving. Yes, it will put a little more torque/shear force on the remaining bolts, but if that worries you, they could be upgraded to grade 8 bolts (assuming they're not grade 8 already).
All of this is of course just speculation, at this point. There are other variables that someone else may be able to elaborate on or correct me if I'm wrong.

2002VertGt

If the starter turns counterclockwise then I may be screwed anyway if the JB Weld does not hold. Because it would be torquing against or rather away from that crack and it might just crack at the rest of the way off. It's all I can do right now is hope and pray

Welder7018

Lol thats what my 92 with the 300 six sounded like. I left it off for the longest time. Most thought a tractor was coming down the road lol.

connorcovington

Man I hope this works out for you. How'd you manage to crack the bell housing?

KCCOFox

Wheel spacers went on today in anticipation of the new 35's going on the truck but i have to wait another week or so to order the tires

2002VertGt

couldn't see the bolt above the starter. Kept feeling and feeling just didn't feel it. Putting it all back together. Jb didn't hold that piece in place, it popped out upon install. As soon as we get it running we are taking it to a friend of my dads shop that said he would take it out and some how weld the aluminum?! For "well under 1000$". Not sure exactly what but that's what he told my dad when my dad started asking prices.

Summers22

iTrader: (2)

Surely you mean $100, not a thousand.......

RLXXI

Went and gathered up supplies to give her a shield from nature. Just about done, need to add a few braces then the roof and trim and mother nature can kiss my *** if she thinks she's going to ding my truck again!!!..




Reminds me of the erector sets I had as a child,..... but on steroids.

The kit came with free install but I wanted to do it myself because I love building.

Next time I'll let them do it. LOL

.

goneMINIcrazy

Was the slab always there?

03Shamu

I showed mine to a potential buyer!!

Hopefully gonna get her sold soon.