DodgeForum.com

Dodge Ram 1994-2001: How to Replace Starter

Your truck won't start, now what do you do? The solution is more simple than you think. This article will explain how to replace your starter.

By Neftali Medina - July 10, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 2nd Generation (1994-2001).

Getting up in the morning, piling in the truck, and turning the ignition to hear nothing in return is one of the most disheartening moments to experience, especially when you got things to do! Lucky for you, the starter is out, so all you have to do it replace it. The starter is a component inside the engine system responsible for spinning the crank, and "turning the engine over." When the starter solenoid fails or the teeth gets too dull, the flywheel won't turn, leaving you stranded. Replacing the starter is a relatively simple process that requires a basic set of tools and can be done in under an hour. Use these following instructions to replace the starter on your Dodge Ram.

Materials Needed

  • Metric socket set up to 16mm
  • Jack
  • Jack stands
  • Sandpaper, brillo pad, or comparable

Step 1 – Jack up and secure your Ram

The starter is located on the underside of the transmission, so use a jack to lift the truck on level ground and secure it using a set of jack stands. For extra security, pull the emergency brake up, and also be sure to disconnect your battery.

Figure 1. Raise and secure the truck.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Truck - DodgeForum.com)

Step 2 – Remove the old starter

  • Use a 16mm socket to remove the top and lower mounting bolts. Be careful not to lose the washers.
  • Pull the starter outwards to loosen the 8mm and 13mm nuts for the wire leads.
  • Disconnect the wire leads.
  • With the starter removed, scrub the old wire leads from the harness with sandpaper to clean up the contacts.
Figure 2. Use a 16mm socket to remove the starter.

Step 3 – Install the new starter

  • First, connect the solenoid and wire leads to the new starter.
  • Mount the 8mm and 13mm nuts back to the starter. Then tighten down the wire leads.
  • Line the starter bolts up with the transmission.
  • Slide the two 16mm starter bolts back in place. Start with the top bolt and hand tighten it. Then slide in the lower bolt.
  • Torque down the upper and lower starter mounting bolts.
  • Once the starter is installed, remove the jack stands, slowly lower the truck, and reconnect the battery.
Figure 3. The starter installed.

Related Discussions