#### Tools and Materials Needed
- Replacement Starter
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
#### Step-by-step instructions:
1. Park the vehicle.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is engaged.
2. Disconnect the battery.
Locate the battery and disconnect the negative terminal using a wrench. This will help prevent any accidental electrical shocks while working on the starter.
3. Remove air cleaner housing (if necessary)
On some Aerostar models, the air cleaner housing may obstruct access to the starter. If so, remove the air cleaner housing by loosening the wing nut or bolts that secure it to the carburetor or throttle body.
4. Remove starter wires
Locate the starter solenoid and remove the two wires connected to it:
- A thick positive cable connected with a nut.
- A thin wire which is usually connected with a nut or a bolt.
5. Remove the starter mounting bolts.
There are typically two or three bolts that secure the starter to the engine block. Locate these bolts and remove them using a wrench.
6. Remove the starter.
Once the mounting bolts are removed, you can gently pry the starter away from the engine block and remove it. Be careful not to drop the starter, as it is heavy.
7. Install the new starter.
Place the new starter in position and secure it with the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts securely.
8. Reconnect the starter wires.
Reinstall the two wires that you removed in step 4:
- The thick positive cable (usually red)
- The thin wire that goes to the solenoid (usually white with a black stripe)
9. Reconnect the battery.
Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
10. Test the starter.
Turn the key in the ignition to the "Start" position. The starter should engage and crank the engine.
11. Reinstall air cleaner housing (if applicable).
If you removed the air cleaner housing in step 3, reinstall it now and secure it with the wing nut or bolts.
Your Ford Aerostar should now start properly with the new starter installed.
