- Replacement Starter
- Socket Set
- Wrench Set
- Pliers
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Instructions:
1. Open the hood of the truck and disconnect the battery's negative terminal. This will prevent any electrical shock hazards while you work on the starter.
2. Locate the starter motor on the engine. It is usually a cylindrical-shaped object located near the bottom of the engine, mounted on the bell housing. On the 1998 Ford Ranger, it's likely on the driver's side.
3. Once the starter is located, identify the wires connected to it. There will be a positive wire (usually red) connected to the starter solenoid, a negative wire (usually black) connected to the starter case, and a smaller wire (usually white or yellow) connected to the starter solenoid.
4. Disconnect the wires from the starter. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts holding the wires to the starter terminals. Be careful not to drop any bolts or nuts into the engine compartment.
5. Remove the bolts that hold the starter to the engine. There are usually two or three bolts that secure the starter to the bell housing. Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts.
6. Once the bolts are removed, carefully remove the starter from the engine compartment. Be careful not to drop the starter.
7. Take the old starter to an automotive parts store to get a replacement. Match the old starter with a new one that has the same specifications.
8. Place the new starter in position on the engine. Be sure to align the mounting holes with the holes in the bell housing.
9. Insert the bolts that hold the starter to the engine and hand-tighten them.
10. Reconnect the wires to the starter. Be sure to connect the positive wire to the starter solenoid, the negative wire to the starter case, and the smaller wire to the starter solenoid.
11. Tighten the bolts that hold the starter to the engine using a socket wrench. Be careful not to over-tighten the bolts.
12. Reconnect the battery's negative terminal.
13. Start the engine to make sure the starter is working properly.
Tips:
- If the starter is difficult to remove, you may need to use a pry bar to gently pry it loose from the engine.
- Be careful not to drop any bolts or nuts into the engine compartment. If you do, you may need to remove the oil pan to retrieve them.
- If you are uncomfortable working on vehicles, you may prefer to have the starter replaced by a qualified mechanic.
