Starter removal, 2.8l Duramax

Delta456 · February 6

I am dropping the transmission on a 2016 z71 4x4 diesel and am hitting some roadblocks. Torque converter went bad at 90k, goal is to just change it, transmission seems ok still. I have the service manual, and all has been fine up to the point of pulling the starter.

It is billed as a 1.8hr job, but is also stated as requiring pulling a motor mount to get it out. I will ALMOST fit without removing it- 1/4” would do it. The motor mount requires pulling the steering shaft, which I would prefer to avoid. I can get most of the bolts loose, but two of the lowers are well hidden. Absolutely no way it’s 1.8hr with the motor mount.

Has anybody done the starter replacement one and might have some insight? Or the whole thing. There is bizarrely little info out about thee diesel specifically. The rest, I think I’ve got a handle on, but this is proving to be a big pain.

mjm-1957 · February 6

Warranty time is 3.0for the starter. Trans R and R is 12.1.The worst part of that whole job is the convertor bolts. I am the transmission guy at a GMC Buick dealer and have done a few of those. I hate that truck!!!

Delta456 · February 6

So they’re right with the removal of the front left motor mount then? No trick for slipping the starter out?

newdude · February 6

Just now, Delta456 said:

So they’re right with the removal of the front left motor mount then? No trick for slipping the starter out?

Correct.

It's Tim · February 6

5 hours ago, Delta456 said:

transmission seems ok still

How much glitter is in the pan?

Delta456 · February 6

Thanks. We shall see then.

As far as glitter, there was a bit, fluid looked dark. We bought it with 80k on it, and I’m fairly certain it’s never been changed.

The transmission isn’t very available right now, that has been part of the not changing it logic, and cost.

Delta456 · February 7

5 hours ago, newdude said:

Correct.

Thanks. Any tricks or tips with it? Or it’s just a PITA? I’ve done a few, this one is the worst for sure, nobody around here wanted to work on it either. I get why.