Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Top Starter Bolt

[BDMiller]

So we got a warm day in NH & I wanted to replace my crankshaft position sensor. I read all the posts & it sounds pretty easy but I can not seem to get that top starter bolt to move. The problem is that I can not fit my hands up there & my 10mm wrench doesn't have much lenght for leverage.

Any hints?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Partyat33]

There is a spot up there to get your socket on it, just approach it from another angle. The right lenght extension 6" in I think will make it pretty easy.

 

[jwilliams3]

6" wobbly extension and 9" long ratchet.

 

[obert]

If you dont have 4wheel ABS, get your knees up on the fender and reach down in from the top. Then just cheat your wrench with the next size up.

 

[RWhites]

I used all my extendsions in my box... ... 3 1/2 feet with swivel & socket. Really easy.

rich

 

[BDMiller]

Thanks guys.

Went out with all my extensions & found out I don't have a 10mm 12 point socket...

So off to sears before it gets cold again.

 

[Lnwing]

From an old illflem post;

I've had to resort to turning the top bolt with a high quality wrench and a hydraulic bottle jack several times, works great. Wear glasses

 

[RNixon]

I just replaced my starter last weekend. I didn't have a 10 mm, 12-point socket either, but I was able to break loose that top starter bolt from below, using a 10mm combination wrench with a 3/4" pipe tee for a "cheater". Even after it was loose, I had a hard time reaching it to remove, so I placed a piece of plywood across the top of the engine, resting it across the rubber bumpers that support the hood. After climbing up on top of that, I was able to reach down from the top and remove / replace the bolt. Still not the easiest thing to do, but I got it done in just a few minutes.



btw, A friend (longtime diesel mechanic) clued me in on varying quality of remanufactured starters. I was able to get a quality AC Delco reman. starter at a local parts house (one that specializes in selling to repair shops) for only a few dollars more than the "no-name" one they were going to sell me. Recommended!



Rob

1999 Ram 2500

24-valve CTD

 

[Forrest]

BD ... I picked up a looooong 10mm from Sears ... worked.