Steering linkage

[Hanover Mopar]

Need to disconnect my steering linkage on a 65 Dodge to drop the headers for a new starter. Do I need to take weight off the front end before I do this.

Thanks in advance
Jack

 

[eric383]

If it's just the drag link/tie rods I wouldn't think so. Have you tried unbolting the header so it will move around? I didn't have to drop mine to pull the starter on my 63 with a 383. Good luck.

 

[Hanover Mopar]

Headers unbolted and no way is this coming out. Wish me luck

 

[Hanover Mopar]

Update. Drag link dropped. Headers loose, starter unbolted but no way it is coming out, need about
another inch (don't we all) to get it out. New unit is a mini starter thank God

Starter is junk. Has anyone ever tried to take the starter apart and take it out piece by piece. I can get to the starter
pretty good just can't get it out.

 

[eric383]

Jack, have you tried loosening the motor mounts and jacking the engine up a little?

 

[Hanover Mopar]

Will try that next thanks. Looks like custom headers, just my luck

 

[Hanover Mopar]

No luck there either. This one is b____ch. Can I take the starter apart in pieces.

 

[ilm65]

Drop pitman arm (you'll need a puller), idler arm, center link, remove motor mount nuts on driver's side, jack engine up (will rotate toward passenger side), header will come out followed next by the starter (all from the bottom). And yes, take the weight off the front end. After doing this too many times, I installed a Powermaster mini starter--much more room.

 

[coloradodave]

I might add to ilm65's advice that jacking the car up as high as you can get it will let you move the header to a more vertical position to remove. And.....yes you can disassemble the starter but I would think that is the last solution I would use. Please make sure your battery is disconnected before dealing with this...