Q: How to Disconnect the Starter Motor on Dodge Ram 2500 and Ram 2500?
A: To disconnect the starter motor, begin by disconnecting the cable(s) from the negative battery terminal(s). Then, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. On certain models with 4WD and specific transmissions, there may be a support bracket blocking access to the lower starter mounting bolt. If present, remove the support bracket bolts and pry it aside. Remove the heat shield, if equipped, from the starter motor. Next, remove the nut securing the Battery Cable to the terminal stud on the starter solenoid and disconnect the cable from the terminal stud. Disconnect the electrical connector from the spade terminal on the solenoid. On models with a manual transmission, remove the starter mounting bolt and nut. On models with an automatic transmission, remove the two starter mounting bolts. Move the starter motor towards the front of the vehicle until the nose of the starter pinion housing clears the transmission bellhousing. Tilt the nose down and lower the starter to access the wiring connectors more easily. Finally, disconnect the battery cable and electrical connector from the terminals on the starter motor solenoid and remove the starter. For HEMI engines, follow a similar process, but also remove the two starter motor mounting bolts. For diesel engines, disconnect the wiring harness and battery cable from the starter, remove the three starter mounting bolts, and then remove the starter. Installation is the reverse of removal for all engine types.
Q: How to check a Starter Motor and Starting Circuit on Dodge Ram 2500 and Ram 2500?
A: Start by checking the Battery Cables and connections, testing the battery's condition, and examining the starter motor wiring. Check the related fuses and inspect the ignition switch circuit. Verify the operation of the clutch pedal position switch or the TR sensor. If the starter does not activate, check for battery voltage at the starter solenoid. If voltage is present, remove and bench test the starter motor assembly. If the pinion drive extends but does not rotate, the solenoid is operational but the starter motor is defective. If the solenoid plunger extends and rotates the pinion drive, the starter assembly is functioning correctly.