Starter Solenoid

[flash1942]

Well, its my turn to replace the starter solenoid on a 2002 Itasca 8.1. I've read all the tips I could find (including Oemy's website).I have my 6mm torx socket. I will disconnect battery first. Can someone who has done this, give me some tips? Does the starter have to be removed first? Which bolts are removed to drop the starter? Is it the TWO vertical bolts only (they look to be about 15mm bolts). Thanks for any help given. Lloyd

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by flash1942 Well, its my turn to replace the starter solenoid on a 2002 Itasca 8.1. I've read all the tips I could find (including Oemy's website).I have my 6mm torx socket. I will disconnect battery first. Can someone who has done this, give me some tips?

Lloyd, Try this post from Max Hubrich

[flash1942]

Driver,thanks for the quick reply. I read his excellent write up. What I need is just info on removing the starter.I could start removing every bolt at the starter, but I'm lazy (and old).I just want to remove as little as possible......Thanks,Lloyd

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by flash1942 Driver,thanks for the quick reply. I read his excellent write up. What I need is just info on removing the starter.I could start removing every bolt at the starter, but I'm lazy (and old).I just want to remove as little as possible......Thanks,Lloyd

I don't expect that it's anything more than 2 bolts and the wiring. Disconnect the battery first!

[Max Hubrich]

Flash1942,

Just two vertical bolts hold the starter on. I think a small metal heat shield was also on the solenoid. A couple of electrical connections and it's off the engine.
A #6 long (deep socket) torx bit was needed to remove one screw holding the solenoid on to the starter. I found a cheap, normal length, 1/4" drive #6 Torx bit. I mounted it on a 1/4", 8" extension and ground the head down to fit in the very small space/corner the bolt was located in. It worked fine.

Good luck,

[flash1942]

Thanks Max,, That was the info I needed. Lloyd

[alvinc]

I have encountered the condition of good voltage but no starter spin at least 4 or 5 times now. The solution has always been to crawl under the rig and whack the starter with a hammer.

I guess one of these days whacking will not work. But its such a cheap solution. Also, why would the new one work any better? The current one is Original Equipment.

Oh, I know, I haven't had to do this in rain or mud. I'm sure that would change my mind.

[Max Hubrich]

Put a new solenoid on the starter.

Do it now- . Not when stopped on the interstate for lunch or refueling.

You'll be sorry-

Or at least carry a spare so you can crawl out in the rain, wind or snow and do it when it fails, for good. Also carry a #6 Torx bit deep socket, 1/4" drive ratchet and 6" extension.

Your choice--

[alvinc]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Max Hubrich Put a new solenoid on the starter. Do it now- . Not when stopped on the interstate for lunch or refueling. You'll be sorry- Or at least carry a spare so you can crawl out in the rain, wind or snow and do it when it fails, for good. Also carry a #6 Torx bit deep socket, 1/4" drive ratchet and 6" extension. Your choice--

In an earlier post there were issues with finding vendors for the external (female) Torx sockets. Below are two sources I found.

I know not everyone thinks highly of Harbor Freight tools, nor do I, but they have a place. Harbor Freight has female deep torx socket sets. They do not call them "Torx", but "Star". The 1/4 inch socket set is part 95178 with E4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 sizes for $7.99. The 3/8 inch socket set is part 95395 with E10, 11, 12, 14, 16, and 18 for $9.99. I use the Harbor Freight internal "Star" bits on my Jeep Wrangler.

Of course you can buy the S&K versions for $40 and $50 respectively. The individual sized S&K #6 Torx can be had for $10 plus shipping.

[angelman]

Advanced auto BWD Starter solenoid for 8.1 Vortec Part # S5058 $23.89. I just ordered one to have with me. You have to call your local store so he can order it. If you order before sep. 6 there's 20% off. Coupon code: LABOR. $19.11+Tax. Takes three days.