Look at post #4 in thread below. It shows an OEM style BENDIX 8BA starter fitting behind the fly wheel of an 8BA engine with an 8BA flywheel. You have to tilt starter at a little angle to slide it in so that the Bendix gear will mesh with the flywheel gear. Then it will bolt right up. If you're laying on your back under the car, the starter get's a lot heavier!
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showt...ng+starter+12v
The original style Bendix starter is shown in photo 11 in
the first post on the link mentioned above.