The starter quit on me the other morning without warning.

I was limited on resources since I was on a trip I did have a few socket sets and wrench sets and other odds and ends in the toolbox so I dug into it on a "cold" concrete garage floor.

I had much trouble getting the top bolt free so I contemplated the cost of hiring it done. I decided to continue on. I made a trip to Lowes (thanks to good people lending me a hand) to get a stubby 5/8" wrench and a funny looking 3/8 drive ratchet that changes the head configuration (it came in handy).

I used a short sledge hammer (pushing up through the gap beside the frame) to pound on the stubby wrench with no luck. While thinking I am too old for this, I figured my last hope was heat. I had a propane torch so I lit it up and heated the back end of the bolt through the bell housing hole real good and then I started pounding the stubby wrench again. YES!!!! It slowly came loose. What a good feeling. From there it was straight forward.

A bit unorthodox, yes, but I was able to get the job done. I figure some of this information may (or may not) help somebody in a similar pinch.

PS I put in a Duralast Reman unit.

 

On a trip out of town makes it difficult but I always look at it like I would rather buy $100 worth of tools than pay some shop $100 to do the job even if I already have the tools at home.

Age is a factor though thank God I'm still able to work on my Dakota.

What engine?

 

What, no pics along the way??? (JK)

 

I have heard that top bolt is very hard to get to, much less to remove. It's even worse if something like that happens away from home without tools. I carry a bag of basic tools and a cheap 3/8 and 1/4 inch socket set in my truck but would hate to tackle my starter on the road..glad you got yours done.

Jimmy

 

4.7L V8

It would have been easier but the 4WD system took up some room around that starter.

 

I dont know about the 4.7 but on the 3.9 it really isn't that difficult.

I've had mine out 3-4 times this year. I actually think I found it easiest to lie flat on my back underneath and reach up.

But I agree whenever you gotta do work outside your home/garage its a real pain.

 

i can have mine off in 5 minutes or so. the 4.7 must be significantly different.