What To Do Before Replacing a Starter

Is Your Truck Not Starting?

There is a very good possibility that it's time for a replacement starter . Typically, the warning signs of failing starters in trucks are present: The engine won't turn over, there might be smoke, grinding noises and of course, you have lights but no follow-up action. Replacing a starter is not a simple job. It requires hours of labor to pop-out the components and replace the old with the new. Nevertheless, it's what may be required if you find that you have a bad starter. Before jumping into installing a new truck starter, here are some helpful steps that should be taken prior to replacing the starter in heavy-duty applications.

Safety First

Before you do anything, take safety precautions, and jack up the vehicle with safety stands and wheel chocks. Grab a pair of protective eyewear and keep tool kits in arms reach. Now you're ready to get started (no pun intended).

Disconnect the Battery

Let's be safe and remove the negative battery cable prior to disconnecting the positive battery cable from the starter solenoid. When the time comes to reassemble the battery, you'll want to reverse the order and connect positive then negative. The placement of the starters on large commercial vehicles can vary, so it is best to check the repair manual to discover placement location and tips for replacement.

Starter Part Interchanges

You have a new starter in the box and an old starter in your hand. Do they look like a good match? Check for proper fitment before going through the trouble of installing it in your big rig. Therefore, we recommend using our cross-reference chart to confirm you are receiving a part that is designed to fit and function just like the original part for your Freightliner, Mack, Volvo, Peterbilt, Ford or Mercedes Benz truck.

Shield Starter Solenoids

Heat shields, brackets, and bolts will need to be transferred over and tightened to the new starter solenoid – just don't over-tighten. Over torqueing fasteners can result in snapping screw heads or damaging threads.

Connect Wires and Battery

Once your bolts are tightened and your heat shields and brackets are secure, you are ready to connect the wiring to the starter solenoid and then reconnect the battery. (Remember what we said regarding the battery cables.) Once this action is performed, give your truck a start. Your engine should fire up and you can get where you need to be. Give yourself a pat on the back, you've completed starter solenoid replacement.