skip to main content

Replacing a starter

14 years ago

Our son is going to replace the starter on his 97 Jeep. He has not done this before, and DH will help him over the phone as much as possible (we are in different states).

I was wondering if there is a website which has good general directions which our son could refer to before he starts. I found one or two online but thought someone here might be able to refer me to one which has dependable information.

Thank you.

Comments (4)

jemdandy
14 years ago
Precautions before you begin:

1. Note locations of wiring connections. Got a digital camera? If so, take a picture before tearing things apart.

2. Disconnect the battery.

3. Watch for spacers that may be on the mounting screws (between the starter and engine). These are adjustmet items.

Call your local library and ask if they have a subscription to an automotive repair web site. If they do, you can access that and get instructions. Also, you could buy a Haynes repair manual. These are not very good compared to an offical shop manual, but should suffice for replacing a starter. These manuals are available at some auto parts stores.
bob_k
14 years ago
Just to follow up on Jemdandy's suggestion. Most libraries have copies of repair manuals. I know my local library has several copies of Motor and Chilton.
Related Discussions
Replacing Starter Rope On Weedeater Trimmer
Q
Comments (1)
My experience with those kinds of repairs is this: Keep removing parts until you can get to the starter assembly, replace the rope, then try to remember how to put it back together again! Failing that, just bundle it up, toss into the trash can, and go buy a new machine! That will keep your mind straight, and you won't learn any new swear words, your wife will still love you, and you will be able to sleep at night, without worrying about how to reassemble it! BTDT! Rusty J.
...See More
Husqvarna starter rope housing/replacement rope
Q
Comments (2)
On most mowers the starter assembly is contained in the tank shroud which is screwed to the engine. On a Honda, the starter is bolted and comes off separately. On a Briggs without a tank shroud, just the steel air shroud, you have to remove the air shroud. Anyway, you may have to drain the fuel tank and disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor. Lift off the tank shroud and access the starter assembly. You can search the web for instructions on re-threading and tensioning the starter assembly. It's an easy job.
...See More
Replaced a starter and still won't start
Q
Comments (11)
"might be a stupid ? but, here goes. did you hook the battery up backwards? the starter will turn both ways. " My thought exactly. "Well looks like the one they gave me has the post positioned differently for positive and negative and they are reversed. Can't believe I never caught that." Don't know about Kohler but if you do a B&S that way, it will either blow a fuse (if there is one) OR burn out the diode in the charging system. I had a guy buy an engine from me years ago and come back all worked up because charging system would not work. Turned out he had done exactly what you did, bought a new batter and "put it in just like the old one" problem was poles were reversed. I guess he thought he would put one over on me as his starter would not have worked either and he must have seen the problem. Walt Conner
...See More
replacement starter grinds when cold
Q
Comments (8)
Although the original starter did not have a shim(s), the starter you now have may need those. If the mounting surfaces of the replaement starter has been machined (during the rebuild), it probably needs shims. When the gear teeth do not mesh properly, those will make a groaning sound while cranking the engine. If the teeth are shoved too deeply together, binding occurs and excessive wear results on both sets of teeth. Also, increased loading appears on the starter bearing. The pinion and gear should meet at their pitch circles.
...See More
john_g
14 years ago
On a 97 Jeep it's not so critical to worry about the vehicles long term memory in its computers, so the first step is to disconnect the battery. With newer cars we want to avoid full power loss if possible. So we are forced to attempt the repair while keeping the power for keep alive memory intact.

Above all, do not wear watches or rings while attempting this. Be mindful of how little torque is required for the cable connections, its easy to over tighten them and break the solenoid on the starter. They have to be tight enough to not come loose, but don't break the assembly.

Beyond this, if your son does not possess the ability to simply look at this and figure it out, then he really wasn't born with the skills to try and do it. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and being "mechanically inclined" is a skill that not everyone has. If he can't handle this repair, then its time to have a pro that he can rely on.
socks
Original Author
14 years ago
Thank you everyone.

Sign Up to Comment

Related Stories

PRODUCT PICKS Guest Picks: The Well-Stocked Starter Kitchen

By Liza Hawkins

We’ve got all the kitchen basics and tableware you need (or that recent grad needs) to make cooking a joy

LIVING ROOMS Conversation Starter: Circular Seating

By Mary Jo Bowling

Looking to make a large space cozy or fit seating into a tight spot? Try using a ring of chairs

BEDROOMS Get More From Your Bed (Storage, for Starters)

By Lisa Higgins

Find space for all your stuff — and maybe even a seat, a writing desk or another sleep spot — by cozying up to a multipurpose bed

LIFE World of Design: Discoveries of 10 First-Time Homeowners

See how people around the globe have shaped their starter houses and made them their own

HOME TECH Wake Up to the New World of Connected Alarm Clocks

Use your smart phone to enhance your alarm clock, to get more music and better sound than ever before

Ideabook 911: My Exterior Needs an Update

By Becky Harris

MOVING 5 Risks in Buying a Short-Sale Home — and How to Handle Them

By Christine Tusher

Don’t let the lure of a great deal blind you to the hidden costs and issues in snagging a short-sale property

SMALL SPACES 10 Tips for Chic Little Bathrooms

By Lara Sargent

Get more visual appeal and storage in less space, following the lead of these stylish compact bathrooms

GARAGES Not Just for Cars: Garage Doors for the Home

By Scheer & Co. Interior Design

See how the nontraditional use of a garage door could transform your living space

REMODELING GUIDES 5 Places to Love Corrugated Metal in Your House

By Karen Egly-Thompson

It’s budget friendly, versatile and even colorful. Is it any wonder this popular exterior material is making inroads indoors?

Sponsored