Removing starter

[M. Murphy]

98 Base. I'm trying to get to the lower mounting bolt on the starter, Bentleys recommends a long extension from the front through the gap beneath the upper pulley. I'm expecting a clear path for the extension but there apppear to be obstructions, definitely cannot push an extension with a 15mm socket through. I'm wonder about trying to work the extension through and attach the socket on the other side. Anyone else had this issue? Anything I need to be particularly cautious about?

Thanks

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by M. Murphy

98 Base. I'm trying to get to the lower mounting bolt on the starter, Bentleys recommends a long extension from the front through the gap beneath the upper pulley. I'm expecting a clear path for the extension but there apppear to be obstructions, definitely cannot push an extension with a 15mm socket through. I'm wonder about trying to work the extension through and attach the socket on the other side. Anyone else had this issue? Anything I need to be particularly cautious about?

Thanks

We normally use a "Wobble socket" for this.

[Dmitry at Pelican Parts]

Adding our tech article on the starter removal as addition info/help for you.

https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Boxster_Tech/83-ELEC-Starter_Replacement/83-ELEC-Starter_Replacement.htm

[M. Murphy]

Please pardon my ignorance here, are you using the "wobble socket" from above or with the long extension from the front? Using the the long extension from the front is a great idea if there is a straight shot back to the lower bolt, there's also sheet metal in the way in the area where I want to route the extension ( between the pulleys).
Thanks

[JFP in PA]

With a long extension.....

[Brian in Tucson]

One of my nightmares. . . I did mine with the engine out of the car (swapping engines.) My observation, was that it wasn't impossible if one removed the throttle body and the plenum crossovers. That way, you can use a shorter extension and 3/8 drive stuff. My real nightmare would be to try to remove the torque converter bolts with the engine still in the car. . .

I used one of those horrible wobble extensions from HF. If you're really careful, the socket doesn't fall off and fall to the nether lands of the engine bay.

[M. Murphy]

Thanks Brian,
I really don't know how I did it, must have forced an opening under the plumbing moving the extension around. I did finally get a straight shot and got the bolt out, starter out and now I'm wondering how I'll get the bolt back in!
Tucson eh. I'm coming down there the third of next month for a reunion of the 12th TFW. I have great memories of DM in the mid sixties.

[M. Murphy]

An update: I was able to disassemble the starter, the three screws retaining the solenoid to the casting were retained at heads by some kind of red substance possibly paint? No amount of Kroil or PB Blaster had any effect, ended up drilling the heads off and the threaded portion turned out by hand. Replacement screws for those interested are M5 .8 X 30, Used thread lock. Following a thorough cleaning and lube with Mobile 1 grease I hope my occasional hung up starter bending gear will be distant memory.

[M. Murphy]

Everything buttoned up and working well, no more bendix hang up.
Re: last reply, I hate the iPad autocorrect!