Q: How to Remove the Starter Motor from a Dodge Nitro?
A: Detach the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. On models equipped with 4WD, detach the left side exhaust down-pipe from the crossover pipe and lower the crossover pipe to allow clearance for removal of the front driveshaft. If equipped, remove the front driveshaft. Remove the heat shield from the starter motor. Disconnect the battery cable and wires from the terminals on the starter motor solenoid. Disconnect any clips securing the wiring to the starter. Remove the two starter mounting bolts and remove the starter from the engine. Note: On 3.7L V6 engines, position the starter so that the front of the starter faces the rear of the vehicle and the solenoid faces downward, then remove the starter by passing it between the exhaust pipe and transmission bellhousing. Installation is the reverse of removal.
Q: How to check a Malfunction in the starer motor and Starting Circuit?
A: If you encounter a malfunction in the starting circuit, don't immediately assume the starter is the issue. First, check the Battery Cable clamps for cleanliness and tightness, inspect the battery cables, and test the battery's condition. Verify the starter motor wiring, mounting bolts, related fuses, ignition switch circuit, starter relay, and the operation of the clutch safety switch or Park/Neutral position switch. If the starter doesn't activate when turning the ignition switch, check for battery voltage to the starter solenoid to ensure it's receiving the correct voltage. If voltage is absent, check the fuses and starter relay. If voltage is present but there's no movement from the starter motor, remove and bench test the starter. If the starter turns over slowly, test the starter cranking voltage and current draw from the battery while observing battery voltage not dropping below 9.6 volts and current draw not exceeding 160 amps. If the starter is receiving voltage but doesn't activate, remove and check the starter motor assembly on the bench, paying attention to the solenoid's operation and pinion drive rotation to diagnose any defects. In rare cases, check for engine seizure before proceeding.