[bobcowan]

The primary function of the nose cover is to provide support for the front of the shaft. Otherwise, it's just sort of hanging out there.

The stock starter places the solenoid high up, at pretty close to the 12 o'clock position. Well out of the way of the pan and frame rails.

I'm not sure about that offset, though. I never measured mine, so I don't know if that's what it's supposed to be. Maybe yours is like that for a larger flywheel and clutch???? If so, you're kinda hosed, and you have to spend $300 for a starter.

Like you, I like the idea of a separate solenoid mounted to the firewall, next to the battery. I know it shouldn't, but the idea of that large live cable snaking it's way down under the headers makes me uncomfortable. So I also have a separate solenoid, just like an old Mustang. Running two solenoids is probably overkill; but it makes me feel better.

When my high torque mini starter died after 12 years, I used it for a return core. I had no use for it, so I sold it to Autozone for $25.