How do you replace the starter on 2004 avalanche 1500 z66?

Answer 1

You need an 8mm or 5/16th socket or wrench to disconnect the battery... if you're small enough, you can get underneath without lifting up the vehicle.... me, personally, I can do that on the 4x4 models, but the 2wd models are a bit tight for me, so I lift the front end up on those... the three bolts that hold the starter in place use a 15mm socket, and the starter comes right out. Make note of which wires connect where on the starter... car starters are pretty simple and I usually only do this on Class 8 truck starters (which use multiplexed systems have many more cable going to the starter), but you might want to use a paint marker to mark the locations of the wires if you're unsure you'll remember where they go.... disconnecting the wires from the starter, I believe one nut will require an 8mm socket.. the large one, I don't remember offhand, as it's been some time since I've replaced a starter on a GM truck, but I believe that'll be either a 15 or 16mm socket.. either way, if you have a complete socket set, you'll have the right size. I'd recommend reattaching those cables to the new starter before bolting the new one back in.... by the way, you'll find the stater in front of the bell housing, on the right side... once it's all installed, you reconnect the batteries, start it... there's a possibility you might have to add shims if the starter appears to be missing or just barely catching the flywheel teeth.
And, of course, before you lift the vehicle, make sure you chock the rear wheels to prevent it from rolling. When you lift it, place it on jack stands.. don't just leave it sitting on a jack.