Gear reduction starter?

[GTRS Fiero]

I want to replace the started with a gear-reduction starter.  I tried one that was recommended elsewhere, but it does not fit.  I'm fairly sure it should bolt up.  No dice.

Which is the correct starter to use?

[TopNotch]

If you ask for a 1998 to 2000 Grand Am starter, you will get one that works, if you have a stock or stock-like (3.4) engine.

[GTRS Fiero]

And the bracket on the back (left)?  Does that transfer?

One of the bolts floats.

I saw this.

[TopNotch]

The bracket on the back of the big starter isn't needed on the little one, because it isn't heavy enough to require it. And the one in your link looks like it will work.

[Wreck It Ralph]

Same question for the 4 cylinder

[GTRS Fiero]

Dunno about the 4-cyl.

This is closer to the one in the pic, above.

[Raydar]

This is the starter that I put on my Duke.
It's listed for a 3800, but will also work on a V6 (2.8, 3.4, 3.4 DOHC, 3800, etc.)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005AN5WAU/

I was actually kind of impressed. It came with graphs/charts from where they tested it. Displayed torque, current drain, and bla, bla, bla...

[GTRS Fiero]

The bracket on the back of the big starter isn't needed on the little one, because it isn't heavy enough to require it. And the one in your link looks like it will work.

Ok.  I got the JP Auto one, but we'll see.

[Fierofool]

I have never seen that starter bracket on any Fiero. 

[GTRS Fiero]

Well, give me a few days, and we'll see.

[NoMad]

I used one for the 3800 as well. Works great.

[Fierofool]

I have one on the (forgot which one) that Scott gave me.  I think it's the 86.  Don't know what it came from.  Sounds a little different but it works well. 

[scottb]

I have one on the (forgot which one) that Scott gave me.  I think it's the 86.  Don't know what it came from.  Sounds a little different but it works well.

That came off of a 2000 Malibu with a 3100, and yes we put that in the yellow 86

[GTRS Fiero]

Other people have reported the different sound.  We'll see.  Maybe I won't like it.

[Fierofool]

The different sound might be due to clearance of the Bendix Gear and flywheel.  Most probably do as I did and just use the starter shim that was with the old starter.  Ideally, the clearance should be set to factory specs, but without being underneath the car to inspect, I'm not sure it can be done with the transmission bolted to the engine.  So, I guess the only way would to have a number of different thickness shims and swap them out until the sound is most suitable. 

Other than weight, what's the reported advantages of the starter?