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-   -   Location of starter in 1998 Altima (https://x.nissanhelp.com/forums/altima/15158-location-starter-1998-altima.html)

eotday 05-22-2010 10:03 AM

Location of starter in 1998 Altima
 
Where is the starter located in the '98 Altima 4 cylinder? How difficult is it to replace?

Thanks much!!

eotday 05-22-2010 07:01 PM

I have located the starter, however, I can only get to one of the two bolts that mount the starter - the one towards the firewall. How can I get to the bolt that is towards the front of the car? I can't even find it with my fingers.

Also, if I can get to both bolts, I can't see a way to get the starter out other than raising the engine. Is there a way?

Thanks!

Ponchoguy 05-22-2010 10:26 PM

Service Manuals
 
Did you download the service manuals from this forum and check the procedure there?

First step.

eotday 05-22-2010 11:31 PM

Yes I've downloaded and read all there is about the starter, battery, wiring, etc.

The problem now is removing the starter because there are so many other parts surrounding it. Tomorrow when it's light out I will take some photos of the area and post.

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

eotday 05-23-2010 12:19 PM

I am having difficulty removing this starter because I cannot locate both bolts, and many obstacles are in the way once I do locate and remove the bolts. Here's where I'm at:

Viewed from above - you can see my left hand coming up from below. You can see the hoses that are in the way of the bolts. I'm touching the head of the bolt towards the back of the car with my index finger but the hoses block the view.

http://i560.photobucket.com/albums/s...n/DSCN4131.jpg





In this photo you can see my fingertip that's touching the head of that bolt. There's a wood stick pointing to the bolt that I'm touching.

http://i560.photobucket.com/albums/s...n/DSCN4135.jpg




Viewed from below - you can see the starter, solenoid, and the opposite end of the same bolt that my finger was touching. This bolt is just below the solenoid, screwed into the mounting flange of the starter. So, I know where the second bolt must be, but I cannot find it with my finger, much less see it.

http://i560.photobucket.com/albums/s...n/DSCN4143.jpg




So now, my question is, how the heck do I get to the second bolt without removing way too many hoses, wires, etc?

Also, how will I get the wires off of the solenoid without destroying them?

Thanks for any help you can provide!!

Ponchoguy 05-23-2010 12:23 PM

Sometimes you can use what's called an "obstruction wrench" which is a "U" shaped wrench that is used in situations like that. I know that Sears sells them in the Craftsman line. That may be enough to get it out.

Or, a ratcheting wrench may work. This is one of those jobs where you need every trick in the book.

I'd really suggest you go with a Nissan new/rebuilt starter on this one because it doesn't seem one you want to do twice. Some of the parts store rebuilts have a LOT left to be desired.

Ponchoguy 05-23-2010 12:41 PM

Starter
 
1 Attachment(s)
Dang Nissan...what an illustration in the parts book. LOL.

Like this helps. Gee whiz....

Included it anyhow, just in case a light bulb goes off in your head.

eotday 05-23-2010 04:00 PM

Thanks for the picture and advice Ponchoguy!! I appreciate it. I'm still looking for the second bolt.

Thank again!

Ponchoguy 05-23-2010 04:05 PM

No problem. It does look like a tough one to do. That's when all the tools and tricks of the trade come into play :)

eotday 05-23-2010 07:14 PM

:biggrin2: Alright - it's out! Have tested the starter and it seems defective. Will post if I need any help installing the new one. Probably will put in new solenoid also. Will definitely purchase new parts, cuz as you said, this PITA job isn't one I'd like to repeat.

Many thanks for all the help Ponchoguy!!

Ponchoguy 05-23-2010 07:16 PM

Starter
 
The replacement starter should come with a solenoid. Most do..

Either a NEW Nissan OEM starter or a Nissan (purchased from the dealer) rebuilt is the way I would go. They would have the latest updates and be the best quality over aftermarket new or parts store rebuilds (which are questionable quality).

eotday 05-23-2010 09:30 PM

Thanks for the info. I'll work on that tomorrow.


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