LS Starter confusion - years, 9T vs 11T?
 

I recently picked up a 5.3L engine which I was informed was a 2003 Tahoe engine but had no way of verifying what it was actually out of. It came 100% complete with the exception of the starter. I've search through 40+ pages of threads and couldn't find an answer to my question.

It seems that most all LS starters are considered universal in the fact that any starter should fit any motor. I know about the kW ratings changing in starters for different (usually heavier duty) applications.The confusion starts if I look up a starter for a 2003 Tahoe, it lists the starter as having a 9 tooth pinion gear. However, I will not be running the stock 5.3L flexplate, I will be running the 1050 flywheel from the 2005 Silverado 3500 with the 6.0L as this will be mated to a manual transmission. That truck calls for an 11 tooth pinion gear starter. I've heard people claiming that they will all interchange, but how does a 9T and 11T starter work on the same size flywheel or flexplate? The shaft for the 9T pinion does not appear to be any closer than the one on the 11T.

Pretty sure it don't matter. I've ran both on same engine with no difference. One is high tourq/ other is more speed. From what I understand. Just get dorman long bolt kit and truck starter. 6.0 or 5.3 only p/n difference I can tell.. I'm Shure some one more qualified will chime in . Correct me if I'm wrong please...

Hoping for a really solid answer...I'd hate to destroy a new flywheel and starter.

They all interchange

Sounds good. I'll likely go with a 6.0L starter just for the little extra oomph. Probably not noticeable, but why not?