Replace a Dodge Van Starter

When you hear the solenoid click on turning the ignition key, but the engine doesn't even attempt to turn, it might mean you have a bad starter. Due to the way Dodge van starters are mounted, you can't just short across the solenoid to check, you have to pull it out and bench-test it.

Steps

  1. Remove the "-" (black) battery wire. The power to the starter itself isn't switched, and you don't want to do any unexpected welding! Removing the black wire is safer, because if you touch the wrench to the body while you are working on the "+" (red) side, you will get sparks and a very hot wrench!
  2. There is a nut on the bottom and a bolt at the top that need to be removed. You see the nut already gone in this photo, as the author is removing the bolt at top. Note that many of these photos are from underneath.
  3. Remove the rubber grommet that keeps the brake lines in place. Don't lose it!
  4. Pop the brake lines out of the spring steel so it can be slid off the stud.
  5. Take out the starter. Here you can see the electrical connections, which were hidden until now.
  6. Remove the ignition wire. Disengage the red locking tab from the front, and pull it back from the rear; then, pressing down on the black tab and wiggling, pull the connector away from the solenoid.
  7. Remove the starter wire with a socket wrench or adjustable wrench.
  8. Now the starter is out! Bench-test, repair, and/or buy a new one, and reverse the steps to install the working starter.



Tips

  • A set of automotive ramps under the front wheels will give you an extra {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} or so clearance, which really makes a difference in comfort, safety, and ease of removal and replacement.
  • The hardest part by far is removing the solenoid wire, while on your back under the van with the heavy solenoid in one hand. Be patient and you'll eventually get it.

Warnings

  • Wheel chocks are highly recommended, particularly if you are parked on a slope.
  • The battery supplies enough current to weld metal, including any rings or watches you may be wearing. Use reasonable precautions to ensure that you don't come in contact with the positive terminal, directly or indirectly.
  • If at all possible, get far from traffic when working on your van. A collision while you are underneath could really ruin your day.

Things You'll Need

  • creeper or piece of cardboard to keep you out of the dirt
  • 3/8" drive socket set or adjustable wrench
  • automotive ramps and/or wheel chocks (optional but handy)
  • gloves (optional but useful to protect from scrapes, zaps of electricity, grease and oil, etc.)

Related Articles

Sources and Citations

  • This research was made possible, in part, by a land grant from the City of the Sun Foundation, though the specifics of the research were not coordinated nor endorsed by COSF.
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