The clearance spec is how deep the flexplate tooth extends into your starter motor pinion. The least needs to be 0.040 inch. When the clearance is simply too limited, a shim will enhance this clearance. When you described, a shim didn't assist so We're going to assume the clearance is https://enginestarter47902.jts-blog.com/34176426/5-tips-about-starter-parts-you-can-use-today