3.4 block starter holes question/issue

[Spartanzz]

So with the 87 I picked up, previous owner gave me a 3.4 engine.

Today I decided to get to work on the engine but….when lining up Rodney’s starter jig, to drill and tap the holes for the starter I noticed holes were already drilled.

But, the holes do not line up at all and when I bolt the starter using the holes the starter in angled and not straight…..

Am I being neurotic in thinking this block is basically fubar?

[Fierofool]

How does the bendix look relative to the flywheel? 

[TopNotch]

If the holes are in the wrong place, and need to be filled and re-drilled, here's something that may work. Get some mild steel rod a little smaller in diameter than the holes. Insert pieces of this rod in the existing holes with JB Weld (original formula) and allow at least 24 hours for it to cure. File any part of the rods that protrudes smooth. Then drill new holes where they belong. I had to do this in another situation, and it worked perfectly

[NoMad]

If you need to redo them let me know. I can turn you some inserts and tig weld them in so you can re drill them. I can get the right rod for cast iron and know the proper hammering to keep it relaxed and not crack.

[Spartanzz]

Good news today!

Gabe came over with his welder and we were able to weld up the two holes. We then were able to drill and tap the holes is the correct location using the RD jig I had. So, the starter bolts up perfect now!

now I can stress less about that and start putting the engine back together!

[AJ_87Fiero]

Good news today!

Gabe came over with his welder and we were able to weld up the two holes. We then were able to drill and tap the holes is the correct location using the RD jig I had. So, the starter bolts up perfect now!

now I can stress less about that and start putting the engine back together!

#ReliableGabe