Should I replace 120K mi old starter if i have easy access to it?

I currently have most of my engine taken out for head gaskets replacement, exposing the starter in very easy access. Should I replace now that it's super easy to do it? The truck has over 120K mi and the starter has never been replaced.

 

I would. Mine is showing signs of going out at 98K and I've read that it's a tight fit trying to replace it.

 

I would replace it with new one, if you don't want to spend money on new one, buy rebuild kit and rebuilt current one with new parts.

Also I would replace every rubber Oring, rubber boot etc you had removed with new ones. Especially those around oil pump.

 

I wouldn't think twice about rebuilding or replacing it while the truck is already apart. I you don't and it goes bad you'll be kicking yourself for sure.

 

Rebuild or replace.

 

Speaking of rebuilding, does anybody have a link to a good rebuild kit? Been looking to do this for a while and didn't want to shell out ~$150 for a new starter if the same results can be had for cheaper.

 

yeah I got a complete gasket replacement kit

 

I would go to a starter alternator repair shop.Most of the time they have the right parts or kits you need.

 

Rebuild. Take it to a good electrical shop and have them rebuild it. More than likely all it needs are new contacts.

 

This and it will be done way better than the overseas reman shops do it.

 

I would run that sucker till it stops! Who knows how long it will last. Its your money, replace it if you want.

Is it acting up? Is it giving you signs that's its about to fail? Some parts make sense to replace while your facilitating other maintenance, like a water pump during a timing chain replacement ect..

I wont replace a starter unless it gives me a sign.

 

I would since it's a pain to reach & you already have it apart. It's kind of like replacing a timing belt & replacing the water pump while you're there. It's already apart, why do it again later when it goes out.

 

Another vote for local shop rebuild. If you're handy you could do a disassemble/clean/regrease, and see if anything warrants replacement.

 

i decided to order a brand new one. i do not have the time to shop around for a shop that will do the rebuilding. i paid only $105 incl shipping. how much less would i have paid to rebuild ? some little conveniences are just worth paying for.

 

Damn $105 for brand new Denso starter ? Where?

 

it is not a Denso, it is Remy

 

I'd have run the stock one until it died instead of a aftermarket rebuilt unit.

 

the difference is that NOW i have easy access to it and when it dies i would have to do the digging all over again

 

so now i really want to replace anything that has any reasonable chance of failing in the next 3-4 years