What am I doing wrong? getting the starter off 1979 4x4 pickup

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Zack1978

Zack1978

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Hey everyone,
For the past three hours I have attempted to get the starter off on my 1979 4x4 mini (20R). I can't get to the bolts that hold the starter on. Are there two bolts/nuts? I can see the top nut but that's it, and even the top bolt I can't get a wrench on. There is so much in the way, the air cleaner, char canister, gas cable linkage. I can't even see the wires to the starter. SO are there any tips/tricks to getting this starter off? I feel very stupid!

Thanks,
Zack
 
First thing you need to do: disconnect the neg lead from the battery.

It's been too long since I've worked on a truck of that vintage, I'm not 100% sure, but I believe you can reach the starter by going in from above the right front wheel. Remove the tire, you should be able to reach under the inner fender and get to it.

I also find that it is sometimes easier with a looooong extension and a 14mm wobble socket, go in from the front.
 
yep, agreed. It's easier to access from the wheel well. Sort of weird though, I got an 83 and it's super easy not to mention I am mentally and mechanically challenged. Good Luck
 
Well I didn't take the tire off, but I did look in there, and it still seems that even with the tire off I will not be able to get at anything. There looks to be a hyd line/junction directly in the way. Hmmmm a damm starter is so difficult!

Zack
 
I Just Got Done Taking One Off...

You Will Need To Take Off The Air Cleaner To See It From The Top.

You Will Need A 3/8 Drive Ratchet, And Short 14 Mil Socket.

Coming From The Top Of The Starter Looking Down At Your Engine.


The Long Extensions Work To Just Your Oil Filter Is Kinda In The Way.

Try That Out, Also Use A Flashlight To Find It. It Should Be A Nut.
 
Full_M3tal said:
I Just Got Done Taking One Off...

You Will Need To Take Off The Air Cleaner To See It From The Top.

You Will Need A 3/8 Drive Ratchet, And Short 14 Mil Socket.

Coming From The Top Of The Starter Looking Down At Your Engine.


The Long Extensions Work To Just Your Oil Filter Is Kinda In The Way.

Try That Out, Also Use A Flashlight To Find It. It Should Be A Nut.
Click to expand...

Ok thanks! So the top bolt is from the top with the air cleaner removed. Is there a bottom bolt? Where do I get at that bolt? And also what about the wires? Do you attach the wires before you bolt the starter in the engine, and do you take the wires off the old starter when it is off the engine? HOw long did it take you to do?

Thanks,
Zack
 
I used to use an air ratchet and several long extensions and a swivel joint, but I don't think that was the easy way........
 
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