Removing the Starter Motor
If your testing indicates that the starter must be removed, the first step is to disconnect the negative cable at the battery and wrap the clamp with electrical tape. It may be necessary to place the vehicle on a lift to gain access to the starter. Before lifting the vehicle, disconnect all wires, fasteners, and so on that can be reached from under the hood.
Disconnect the wires leading to the solenoid terminals. To avoid confusion when reinstalling the starter, it is wise to mark the wires so they can be reinstalled on their correct terminals.
On some vehicles you may need to disconnect the exhaust system to be able to remove the starter. Loosen the starter mounting bolts and remove all but one. Support the starter while removing the remaining bolt. Then pull the starter out and away from the flywheel. Once the starter is free, remove the last bolt and the starter.
Once the starter is out, inspect the starter drive pinion gear and the flywheel ring gear(Figure 18-25). When the teeth of the starter drive are abnormally worn, make sure you inspect the entire circumference of the flywheel. If the starter drive or the flywheel ring gear show signs of wear or damage, they must be replaced.
Reverse the procedure to install the starter. Make sure all electrical connections are tight. If you are installing a new or remanufactured starter, sand away the paint at the mounting point before installing it. Also, make sure you have a good hold on the starter while installing it.