How to Replace the Starter Motor on a Mitsubishi Montero
by Leonardo R. GrabkowskiThe starter motor, better known as a starter, uses electrical power to give spark to your engine. The spark allows the vehicle to crank smoothly and reliably. Before starters, drivers were forced to hand crank their vehicles to get them running. All versions of the Montero, including the Montero Sport, use a traditional electrical starter.
Step 1
Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable for safety. Use the pliers to loosen the nut and slip the cable off. The starter is an electrical item; disconnecting the battery will prevent shock.
Step 2
Gain access to underneath the vehicle and remove the engine protective guard (not all models are equipped with a guard).
Step 3
Remove the starter access cover. Unplug the wiring modules from the starter.
Step 4
Remove the bolts mounting the starter. Use a penetrating solvent (like liquid wrench) to loosen the bolts if they are too tight. Do not discard the old starter.
Step 5
Place the new starter in the same position as the other. Use the torque wrench to tighten the bolts to between 20 and 25 foot-lbs. Reconnect the wiring module.
Step 6
Crank the vehicle, to make sure the starter is working correctly, before re-assembling the other components.
Step 7
Replace the starter cover and the engine brush guard. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Tips
- You probably paid a "core charge" when you purchased your new starter. Bring the old starter to the merchant for a refund. A core charge is used to help recycle used parts.
Things You'll Need
- Pliers
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Replacement starter
Warnings
- Do not attempt this project without a torque wrench. They can be purchased at most auto parts stores.
Writer Bio
Leonardo R. Grabkowski has been writing professionally for more than four years. Grabkowski attended college in Oregon. He builds websites on the side and has a slight obsession with Drupal, Joomla and Wordpress.