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This page is taken directly from our digital online manual 36059 for the 1997-2003 Ford F150 truck and 1997-2017 Ford Expedition/Lincoln Navigator, 2WD or 4WD with V6 or V8 gasoline engines, but it applies to many other Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles that use the Ford "modular motor" like the Mustang, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, and Town Car. Their is no recommended service interval for a starter motor, they all eventually wear internally and stop working.
Starter Motor Replacement
This video is specifically for the V6 installed in the F150 and large SUVs, but the V8 and other Ford vehicles are similar
Warning: Some models covered by this manual are equipped with self leveling suspension systems. Always disconnect electrical power to the suspension system before lifting or towing the vehicle. Failure to perform this procedure may result in unexpected shifting or movement of the vehicle which could cause personal injury.
The starter motor on these vehicles are mounted on the passenger side of the vehicle, next to the oil pan, bolted to the transmission.
- Detach the cable from the negative terminal of the battery.
- Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands.
- Disconnect the large cable from the terminal on the starter motor and the solenoid terminal connections.
- (See illustration) Remove the starter motor mounting bolt and nut and detach the starter from the engine. V6 models, like the F150 shown here, have two bolts and V8 models have three bolts.
Remove the starter mounting bolt and nut (arrows) and separate the assembly from the transmission bellhousing
- Installation is the reverse of removal.
Note: When the battery is disconnected and reconnected, the vehicle may experience abnormal driving symptoms while the computer (PCM) relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 10 miles or more to regain smooth operation.