Here's a general outline. Specific steps and parts may vary depending on the year and model of your Ranger. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and engine.
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting any work.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), a torque wrench, a bench vise (highly recommended), and possibly a starter rebuild kit (containing brushes, bushings, and possibly other parts).
* Obtain a Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton manual for your specific Ranger model is invaluable. It will provide detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
* Gather Parts: Before starting, purchase a rebuild kit appropriate for your starter. You can usually find these online or at auto parts stores. Knowing your starter's model number will help.
2. Removal of the Starter:
* Locate the Starter: Consult your repair manual for the exact location. It's usually on the engine block, near the transmission bellhousing.
* Disconnect Electrical Connections: Carefully disconnect the positive and negative battery cables from the starter solenoid.
* Remove Mounting Bolts: Unscrew the bolts holding the starter to the engine block. These bolts can be tricky to access, requiring extensions and wobbly sockets.
* Remove the Starter: Carefully remove the starter from the engine compartment.
3. Disassembly of the Starter:
* Clean the Starter: Use a wire brush and compressed air to clean dirt and debris from the starter.
* Inspect for Damage: Look for obvious signs of damage, such as broken parts, stripped threads, or excessive wear.
* Disassemble Carefully: Follow the instructions in your repair manual for disassembling the starter. This usually involves removing the solenoid, end cap, armature, and commutator. Take pictures as you go to aid reassembly.
* Check Components: Inspect all components for wear and tear. Replace any worn or damaged parts from your rebuild kit.
4. Reassembly of the Starter:
* Clean all parts: Make sure all parts are clean and free of debris.
* Reassemble Carefully: Reverse the disassembly process, carefully installing all components. Ensure everything is properly aligned and seated. Pay close attention to the commutator and brushes.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the correct specifications found in your repair manual.
5. Installation of the Starter:
* Mount the Starter: Carefully mount the rebuilt starter back onto the engine block.
* Reconnect Electrical Connections: Reconnect the positive and negative cables to the starter solenoid.
* Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery cable.
6. Testing:
* Test the Starter: Have someone crank the engine to verify that the starter is working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Bench Testing: Some mechanics prefer to bench test the starter before reinstalling it to ensure it's functioning properly. This often involves connecting it to a battery and a load tester.
* Professional Assistance: If you encounter any problems or are unsure about any step, seek professional help. Improperly rebuilt starters can lead to further damage.
This is a general overview. The specifics will depend heavily on your Ranger's year, model, and engine. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle before attempting this repair. Improperly performing this repair could result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury.
