GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

REVISED STARTER REPLACEMENT ON EARLY BUILT 'W' CAR

STARTER REPLACEMENT ON EARLY BUILT W-CAR

Vehicle Affected: EARLY BUILT 1988 W-CAR, BUICK ONLY ---------------- Early built 1988 W Cars, Buick only, built before VIN J1400790, use a PMGR starter. This starter was replaced in production by a 5MT starter. The PMGR starter will not be serviced, and the 5MT will be used to service all vehicles. To replace the starter on an early built vehicle, use the following procedure:

1. Disconnect negative battery cable.

2. Remove A/C compressor brace.

3. Remove starter.

NOTICE: IF VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH OPTIONAL OIL COOLER (KC4) REMOVE THE OIL FILTER TO GAIN ACCESS TO THE STARTER. REPLACE THE FILTER IF IT IS DAMAGED DURING REMOVAL.

4. Disconnect wires from starter. Cut ring terminals off the two existing wires and discard. Replace the ring terminals with new terminals, part number 2962953 for large wire, and 2984756 for small wire. Place heat shrink tubing on wire, then crimp and solder terminal to wire. Use a heat gun to shrink the tubing in place over connection.

5. Replace existing positive battery cable with new part number 12072973.

6. Install new starter assembly, part number 10455023. Connect wires. Starter includes new terminal connector nuts.

7. Reinstall A/C compressor brace.

8. Reconnect negative battery cable.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.