2001 Nissan Sentra Starter

I recently decided to replace the starter on my 2001 Nissan Sentra.  I first thought "no big deal, it's just 2 bolts and a wire connection"... Well, I was dumbfounded at how long it took me to even find the starter (buried beneath the intake manifold, totally out of view from the hood or the bottom of the car), then how difficult it was to get to it.  I was amazed at the lack of space to get in with any tools, not to mention power tools.  Even the CTS561 screwdriver was large for the limited space, although I managed to use the CT4410 Impact Wrench to remove the bolts from the topside with the help of a 3/8" universal joint.  I realized the value of a fine tooth ratchet, too, because the space to remove the connector nut from below was really limited, and I could not get one click from my standard ratchet!  I thought I might need to remove the support for the intake manifold to get the starter out once it was disconnected.  I finally removed the old starter only to realize I had the wrong replacement (it was actually a 2.0 ltr, not a 1.8 as I thought).  The starter made it out without removing the manifold support.  Two days later, I now have the correct  starter, but the car is still on jack stands in the garage waiting for the installation.  Needless to say, I should have paid the money to have the job done correctly by a technician - it would have been well worth the money.  However, as a designer of tools for Snap-on, I realize and appreciate how difficult the technicians' job is, and periodically trying new automotive tasks helps me to try to develop new, better products to meet technicians' needs.  A couple things came to mind as I was working on this job - 1) smaller tools, 2) better lights, or lights on the tools... I have a couple questions: Any tips from the pros on doing this job?  Are there makes/models out there that are more or less tech-friendly?  Any ideas for tools that might help with this job?  Thanks  

Comments

Dennis A..

 

Griff, This is why we love our industry! With the EPA, HTS and other Government agencies driving our transportation builders to more challenging requirements, the ability to work on these vehicles, which are spawn out of laws, is very challenging! The need for unique tools and education is a never-ending adventure. With smaller engine bays, lower ride heights; more computer controls and emissions devices make the job even more exciting. Being involved in the automotive engineering world like yourself, I applaud you for getting under a vehicle and seeing first had what millions of technicians face on a daily bases. Technicians are faced with new technology every September. The need for new tools to work on these vehicles is crucial to the technician to get the job done. So please continue to get in and out of vehicles and exam in the locations of components and imagine what a technician could use to get that component removed and re-installed! Looking forward to your next design!
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