It's getting plenty of juice. Hubster suspects the Bendix, so obviously the starter has to come out. It won't. It was suggested we pull the engine to get the starter off so we can replace it. That is not happening! Not only do we not have the facility to do that, we don't have the money to take it to a garage to do that either.

So how best to get that starter off so we can either get it rebuilt, or get a new one? Hubby is at his wit's end and I sure don't have any suggestions. Thanks in advance, fellas and gals!

 

I know little about the E350's and less about he diesels... But here is a super-duty diesel starter change video... Surly you wouldn't have to pull the engine! I was reading that on trucks there is a hidden 3rd bolt that is accessable with an extension and universal joint on the socket..
Don't pay attention to the fact that he didn't disconnect the battery first, or well do! Now this is also a bus,
Ford E-Superduty Powerstroke Changing a Starter

 

Wow, thanks a million! I was able to DL the video and I'll show it to hubby when he gets back. Between us, we should be able to get the job done.

 

You are very welcome!
I found a couple more videos that might be useful to watch. The first deals with the batteries and cables, while the second deals with the starter solenoid and starter wiring. Well worth watching both. I did and I don't even have a 7.3 engine.. The starting system is really not so different from my e150 with a 5.0.. Just the size!

 

I might be a little late to the party, but if I may put in two cents worth, and suggest installing the newer two bolt starter for your 7.3 as a replacement. It is much smaller and lighter than the original three bolt version, and therefore easier to install too. The bonus is it draws much less current than the older unit too, resulting in much faster engine cranking and quicker startups too. I believe Ford changed up to this style of starter for 2002 or 2003 model years if I recall correctly.