OK, found my starter (thanks Steve) but now I cannot get it out. The 2 bolts are removed, but I can barely see the electrical part of the starter. I cannot see how the electronics are removed. Any help would be great! Thanks, Mike

FYI: 4.0 V6 Ranger (2001)

 

arent there 3? i cant really remember for sure but seams like there are 2 bolts and 1 stud or something to that affect.

can you see the red boot?

 

Red boot is off. I ended up taking my wheel and fender inner liner off and can see it much easier. Still going to be a struggle, but persistance will work (I hope)

 

yeah it's 3 wires going to the starter,it's might be easier for you to take the header off since thats in the way too,that's if you can't get to the wires any other way

 

Once the mounting bolts are out wiggle the starter out and aim the nose up to the spark plugs. You can take off your wiring easier. Then the starter should slide out. Don't forget to disconnect the battery. That big fat wire runs right to the battery.

 

I know the thread is oId, but i had to replace my starter today and found this thread. Had a heck of a time getting it out, it had ti be in the PERFECT angle/position to get it to drop down and come out. I took a picture of its position incase it was any help to someone in the future

 

Help 😜

I cannot figure out how to remove the top bolt on my 2001, 4.0, 4x4, automatic starter. What is the secret sauce needed to get that bolt free? I thought I had some mechanical ability but this single bolt has me stumped.

Dinoburb

 

Unhook battery FIRST
Socket, wobble and extension
Usually easier to remove electrics after starter has been unbolted, tip it up to get access to wiring

I've done mine a few times over 20 years and don't remember the bolts being an issue, getting starter OUT past the front driveline, now thats a Chinese puzzle, lol

 

~~

this was a major help! once it was aligned it was only a matter of jiggling and it fell right out of the cavity. never been so excited!!! (~‾▿‾)~ i was struggling for an hour before coming up on this thread