71 Blazer Starter Issues

[TexasJimmy]

Here is the info.

I will bring my new 71' Blazer home on Saturday. It has set up in a garage for 3 years. This is how I plan to start it for the first time. Any advise is welcome.

1. Drain fuel tank, and add fresh gas.
2. replace all fluids.
3. Pull plugs and add ATF to cylinders.
4. Disconnect fuel line at carb.
5. Crank until fresh fuel is seen without spark plugs installed.
6. Replace plugs and crank it up.
7. If float is stuck, tap on carb to release.

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Did all the above today. He said he has had starter problem. I replaced starter and cranked without plugs to make sure everything was free. Motor turned over OK but had a starter whine. Like not meshing with flywheel right, but still turned motor OK. Manually turned flywheel, teeth are OK. Installed plugs and tried to crank. Not hitting at all, just grinding. Not sure if he had the right starter in the first place, or maybe a shim issue? He had stripped one bolt for the starter and installed a stud w/nut for one starter bolt.