I am in the process of replacing the starter on my 1988 4wd pickup. I was able to get everything disconnected (took the tire off to be able to work in the wheel well) and the starter is free. However, I cannot get the starter out. The largest path seems to be taking out the bottom by taking it back past the suspension brackets, but even that is too tight. Any tips?

bws

 

Removing the starter in my 2wd 86 was a little difficult also. I had to go further up with it, rotate it, then bring it out from the bottom. The replacement was the smaller version, so it went in a little easier.

 

Mine was very straight-forward (here). I have a 1986 22RE. a 1988 shouldn't be much different.

Did you also remove the access panel as show on my post?

 

The simplest way to remove the starter is to have Mr. Scott 'beam' the old one out and the new one in. Don't you have a cool flip-out communicator? It's easier to wield than a 3/8" ratchet with a swivel.