Starter question

[Jim in SC]

I'm continuing to go through the different systems on my '51 H - I'm now rewiring everything from the dash to the starter, etc. I removed the starter a couple of days ago (nothing wrong with it, I'm just "de-gunking" it) and I took the starter band off the rear of it. Underneath the band is what I assume was a piece of cardboard or something that was to keep dirt and dust from getting inside the starter. Needless to say, after 67 years, that piece was a bit brittle. I can't put it back, so I was wondering if anyone knows what it was made of. Do you think I can replace it with a thin piece of cardboard or does anyone have a better suggestion. Thanks!

[Rick Spivey]

Not sure how thin it was, or if it really matters. I'd probably go find a cereal box and a pair of scissors.

[Gary Dotson]

Starter shops use a red paper of some sort, I assume it's more fire resistant than a cereal box. Paper gasket material might be better, I've used that before.

[John *.?-!.* cub owner]

If you know anyone that works in the central office of your local phone company see if they can get you a piece of the material they use under the cable troughs. It's color may vary depending on the manufacturer, but it is a fire/heat resistant insulator similar to the original insulator used in both the starters and generators.

[Jim in SC]

Good point about the fire resistant properties! I hadn't thought about that. Thinking about the gasket material, but I'll check on your idea too, John. Thanks to all!