Got Old One Out, Can't Get New One In - I removed the old starter and had it tested and it was dead. Removing the old one was hard enough, ...

I removed the old starter and had it tested and it was dead. Removing the old one was hard enough, getting the new one in seems damn near impossible. It's electrical connections are reconnected but I can't seem to wiggle it through to re-seat it in the bell housing.

Anyone have any ideas? Do I need to remove other wires or fittings to get it back in?
Thanks!

It only goes in ONE way, dont give up... It is a pain but it will go. But only one combination of move, twist, wiggles get it right! I think i removed the solenoid cover(its just presses on?) and then reinstalled it after it was "in"...

Double check to make sure you have the correct one.

Thats a good idea, but trust me, its a pain to get it to fit... Less you do it daily

yeah that's true, installing one on my '67 wasn't too hard though. I think i might need to shim it though...

Thanks for the tips. I did get it back in shortly after I posted. Yes it was a pain in the ass but I got it in, it fits and the truck started right up.
Today - different story - the alternator is dead lol. One thing right into another. But with a new starter, new battery, iridium plugs and a new alternator, starting won't be a problem any more (I hope).

By the way, I never put the solenoid cover back on the starter. Is it absolutely necessary? 'Just wondering.

I would put it back on there, its for heat i believe and is there for a reason. Its kinda a pain also, gotta make sure that lil nipple on the front is lined correctly... But it will go on!