How do I Fix Starter on 1997 GMC Sierra 5.7?

GM has a rich history of producing two great trucks. The Chevrolet Silverado and it's close sibling, the GMC Sierra. In 1997, the GMC Sierra came with numerous options and engine sizes: the 4.3 liter V-6, the 5.0 and 5.7 liter V-8's and the 6.5 liter V-8 diesel. The 5.7 liter V-8 is the most common engine found in this truck, and provides plenty of power and reliability. The relationship that you form with your Sierra, from knowing it's different sounds to changing the starter yourself, is what will keep this truck on the road for years to come.

Instructions

1

Park the vehicle on a level, hard surface and set the parking brake. Install the memory saver per manufacturer instructions. This will retain the memory in the radio and modules to prevent temporary drivability conditions. Put on your safety glasses and protective gloves. Open the hood. Remove the negative battery cable by loosening the cable end bolt. Position the cable away from the battery.

2

Jack up the front of the vehicle. Place the jack stands under the frame, and lower the truck onto the jack stands. Lay under the vehicle and locate the starter. It is on the passenger side of the engine towards the bottom. It is the shape of a small coffee can. Remove the two wires on the top of the starter by removing the locking nuts. There is one large black wire and one purple wire. The wires can be difficult to remove since there is not much space. If you cannot access the nuts from under the vehicle, try going through the wheel well. If you look above the passenger side tire there is a gap between the frame and the wheel well that you can access the starter wire lock nuts through. If you still can't remove them, proceed to the next step.

3

Remove the two starter mounting bolts. Pull the starter towards the front of the vehicle until it is free from the transmission. Lower the starter and remove it. If the wiring is still connected remove it at this time. Do not allow the starter to hang from the wires. Transfer the heat shield from the old starter to the new one, if applicable, and torque the bolts to 9 foot pounds.

4

Install the new starter and torque the mounting bolts to 33 foot pounds. Install the starter wires and tighten the locking nuts until they are snug. Lower the vehicle to the ground. Install the negative battery cable and hand tighten the cable bolt by hand. Torque the cable bolt to 14 foot pounds. Remove the memory saver. Start the vehicle.