Can the starter contacts be changed with the starter still on the vehicle, or does the starter have to be removed?

 

You *can* do it on the vehicle, but it sure is a lot easier with it off.

Also, if your starter is old enough that they actually NEED to be changed, the rest of it is probably pretty worn as well. I would just replace the entire starter, and be done with it.

 

Here is the swap, decide for yourself

https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...condition.html

 

I know everything is easier on the bench, but was hoping for enough access to be able to do it on the truck... I have long enough arms to reach up from the ground, but was wondering if there is enough access/clearance on the nuts to get the wires off.
I guess it's just a matter of the removal/reinstall time compared to how much slower the contact change is.

It cranks fine, when it makes contact... which is becoming hit or miss.

Typically I would just replace the whole starter, but I don't have the cash right now... $10 and a hour on the weekend is an acceptable interim fix to avoid getting stuck somewhere.
The factory starter did about 110k before it started to play up... this one has 93k on it.

Thanks for the link oxymoron29.

 

Should be plenty of room down there to do what you need to. (one of the reasons I LIKE my truck.....)

I understand the budgetary constraints.

 

I would think it'd just be torture to do it with the starter in. This starter is one of the easiest to access of any vehicle I've worked on. The only slightly annoying part I found was the top bolt is also used as a mount for a tranny cooler line retaining bracket - small sheet metal deal. If someone has already monkeyed with your starter in the past I'd bet they chucked it in the garbage.