Brend2b

I tried to remove my starter today to check and repair the contacts and ran into problems taking it off. there is absolutely no space to work due to how close the exhaust pipe is to the starter. i tried removing the upper part of the transmission dipstick tube and unbolted the brake lines. there still is not enough space to move around any tool in order to take the starter off.

i can honestly say i've never been more aggrivated trying to fix something in my life. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

jakob_in

I found the trick was to gently move the brake line bracket (brake line attached) to the top or the other side of the frame. After I did that (and removed the trans dipstick) the thing popped right out. The starter position on exit should be with the back (the side with the cover you will remove to replace the parts) coming out to you.

Brend2b

ok, i tried that before. but i really dont have a way of accessing the bolts to even unbolt it, never mind take it out.


(brake lines and trans dipstick removed after this pic)
the only actual access to this is the two bolts which are directly behind the exhaust and when trying from underneath there is not enough room to easily remove the stuck on nuts

jakob_in

I was able to use a standard (3/8") socket wrench, a long extension, a universal followed by the socket for the top bolt, the same arrangement with a short extention for the bottom bolt. Both accessed from the bottom of the truck. It took some careful angling to make sure I was on the bolts squarely but they both came out with that arrangemnet of tools.

I did read where someone suggested taking the header off, but I think that was for an aftermarket exhaust and not the manifold you (and I) have.

Brend2b

yeah i guess ill just have to keep messing with it tomorrow

scuba

This looks like a 5vz. I just did mine on my 3rz and I had a 6" extension, a 3" extension, and a swively thing at the very end...Just takes a little patience, I did it at midnight with the ground being wet from rain...Once you do get it unbolted do what he said to take it out...

raydouble

I've replaced the starter contacts on a 97 and 99 Runner and never had a issue with the exhaust being in the way.
Not exactly easy to remove but I never even disconnected anything else.

Edit: I don't know how to read...............
Get yourself a universal joint on a long extension for the hard to get at ones.
Easier IMO if you go from underneath also.

rocket

iTrader: (1)

This subject has been covered numerous times. There's even a few write-ups on removing it...
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/3...ips-how-89042/

scuba

hah wow....

Potomacduck

I read the write-ups and my starter wouldn't come out either.

Here's what I did:

I removed the electric connection (duh)....I unbolted the starter, then I turned it to face the ground.

I allowed the starter motor to drop down toward the sway bar. I replaced the contacts while it sat there. Easy!

It took me 35 minutes max.

BajaRunner

Weird, I removed mine without any hiccup whatsoever. Maybe it just depends on the size of your tools?