I was able to determine that I need a new starter by running the tests described in the very helpful opening post by Chris at "Jeep Wrangler TJ won't start? Read this!" (https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/jeep-wrangler-tj-wont-start-read-this.1201/). Then, after seeing that I needed an E12 external torx socket and buying it, I was able to get the bolts out, which should have been the hard part. But now, with the starter loose, I cannot get it out. It will not come straight out and drop down, as would be expected. As I start to back it out, it forces itself to angle upward at the far end, and this far end of the starter runs into the engine pan. This stops the starter from getting far enough out to drop free. What is the solution for this strange problem?
Starter removal problem on 1998 2.5L 5-speed
- Thread starter DER52
- Start date
Nimbley
TJ Enthusiast
Sounds like the bendex drive is stuck behind the flywheel. Try hooking power back up to it and jumping the contacts. You might have to bang on it with a hammer but it should pop loose.
After Nimbley explained the situation, I thought that it was worth one more try by hand before hooking power back up to it. So I tried again to pull it out straight, allowing for and pushing against the force of the bendix spring (or so I thought). Still no luck. I was about to give up and hook up power when all of a sudden something must have let loose. Perhaps the wiggling of the starter allowed the bendix spring to pull the gear that was engaged in the flywheel back into the starter. In any case, the starter twisted down into a flat position and I could then take it out. Good luck with yours!
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