Starter Mounting problem

[SWBuechler]

When mounting my new starter in my pre 1985 Chevy 350 Short Block 5.7L mercruiser engine I can't get it installed. I can get the inboard bolt in but then the outboard bolt doesn't line up correctly. If I start with the outboard bolt the inboard bolt doesn't line up correctly. I have been advised by two local guys to bore out the bolt holes a bit to force a fit but I wondered if anyone else had experienced a similar problem.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... My guess is, ya got the wrong starter,....

Chevy's use one of 2 starters,....
The straight across pattern is for the 12" flywheel, 'n the staggered pattern for the 14" flywheel,....

Which flywheel ya gonna run,..??
Is the block drilled for 1 or both starter patterns,.....

Whatever ya do, a drill is Not the answer,....