Hey everyone,

I'm new here as an official member, but hope to be able to contribute.

Can anyone tell me how to remove the starter from my 2001 stype?

I have it all out but the bolt on the top. Which cannot be seen let alone reached. I can not be the only person in the world with this problem, but I can't find the answer any where.

All the service specs say this is a one hour job. I am two days in and can't remove that darn bolt. If I could have reached it this would have easily been done in an hour.

Any help? Is there some trick I don't know?

I would appreciate some guidance from someone who knows.

Thanks!

 

Got stuck with the same problem on my 2005 w/ 4.2 These tips should help the next guy.

1.) Position the replacement starter in the same orientation so that you can get a better understanding of where the top bolt is located.

2.)The tool I found most useful in getting the 13mm top bolt loose from the starter is attached. There is room on top of the starter (not solenoid) to get a socket on the bolt, but you have to an exact length of extension to get the ratchet on because the motor mount is in the way. So, I gave up on the socket and after trying every wrench in the box, found this one worked for me.

3.) When installing the starter, remember the socket and extension that was a little too long? Now is the time it comes in handy. Insert the top bolt through the casting hole and attach socket with extension (forget the ratchet, you will use your fingers), position starter in place. The bolt is tapered and finds its place fairly easily if you DO NOT START with the bottom bolt. Finger tighten bolt by turning exposed part of extension. Then just finish tightening with wrench.

It took me hours to get that bolt out before I found the wrench that worked, but only took me 10 minutes to put the whole starter back in.

Hope that helps the next guy. Just trying to pay it forward.

Thanks,
Joe

 

Did you download JTIS and follow instructions?

 

I also recently replaced the starter motor on my 1999 model year 3.0 auto. It was a pain!!!!!

The removal procedure in the JTIS is a bit generic ie "now remove the mounting bolts". In practice the top bolt is completely obscured.

As I recall, I ended up removing the alternator and the engine mount with the idea of raising the engine a little to gain better access. With a socket and long extension bar It finally gave way.

In all, a very frustrating experience for what should have been a simple operation.

 

used the s tool, worked great, took a while, in and out in 30-40 minutes.