Update:
So I was able to get the mini starter lined up and everything appears that it will work now. Turns out that it was just an alignment/my fault issue. I had previously modified the z-bar to work with Dougs headers and part of the weld cracked causing the bottom of the z-bar to be pushed forward. It was forward just enough to be pinched in between the header tube and the starter. I think this was probably the biggest part of the issue. I also loosened up the dust cover bolts and kinda wedged the starter over as i tightened it up. Ill hope to be firing up the new motor in a couple weeks and will update again if I have any further issues. I hope this fiasco helps another newbie in his quest to bring an old Mopar back to life.
