Tip:

When replacing the starter on the 5.4L V8 you will find it almost impossible to unbolt the starter from the engine unless you take a few small necessary steps.

Disconnect your battery, go to the passenger's side front wheel well and remove the starter wiring harness hold down clamp attached to the truck frame. Next remove the terminal connectors from the starter. Move the wiring harness out of the way.

This process is a must in order to give you access to the bolts which bolt the starter to the engine.

You will need a combination of three eights inch drive fine tooth ratchet, univeral joint and 6 to 8 inch extentions to remove the start hold down bolts.

Also check your electrical terminal connectors on the end of the harness, to make sure they have not come loose, they are only crimped on by the factory.

If these electrical connectors are coming apart you would be best advised to clean the end of the wire with steel wool, wiping the newly cleaned wire down after this cleaning. Next coat the end of the wire and terminal with Noncoroding soldering paste. Lastly solder the new terminal back on to the wire with 95% tin 5% Antimony solder. Make sure you have a heat shield in place to protect the truck from this heating process, and a fire extinguisher within arms reach. This is a big electrical connector and takes plenty of heat to complete the task in hand.

When reinstalling don't forget to replace the wiring harness holddown clamp and screw which attaches to the truck frame. This clamp holds the starter wiring harness in place so that it does not contact the engine exhaust manifold.

Make sure you leave enough slack in the starter wiring harness for engine movement, do to vibration. If your electrical connector is separated when inspected, inspect your motor mounts and replace if needed.

Good Luck and Good Motoring.

SPW

 

Thanks for the tip. I hope that I never need it!!!!
Jimmy