Flathead 59a 8ba starter

Quick question, I'm looking at a 51 ford meteor for sale and buddy says was running when parked in a garage for three years needs starter rebuilt to run. Well I have an original 59A starter, I've had a look inside and it looks o.k. Would my 59A starter fit with the 8BA block? If so I mite have a 'new' car.. then just rebuild the 8BA starter. So what works?
Thanks
Telecustom

 

From what I understand if you have the correct starter plate it'll work. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

I also understand it that the starters are all the same but the mounting plates are different such as truck verses car, year etc Makes a difference on ring gear contact I believe and if I'm all wet please correct me too so we can all learn.

 

Crap there's four different starter plates... http://www.flatheadv8.org/bellhousing.pdf

 

It sounds like you have the 59A starter loose and in your hands. It shouldn't be too much trouble to go over to your buddy's place and remove the starter from the '51. Then you'll have both loose and in your hands. Inspect and compare. The basic piece (case and armature) is the same on each. The only potential difference is in the drive mechanism. They can be swapped.

 

All 221, 239, and 255 flathead starters interchange EXCEPT '51-3 automatic trans.
V8-60 is different.

 

Thank you Bruce, just when I think I'm down on my luck you come and save the day.