i am replacing a starter for the first time this weekend......any tips or pointers?......how do i know how much to shim it?.....just guess?

 

It's pretty easy, just be ready to catch that puppy, they're pretty heavy.

 

When shimming it, I usually try it without any shims and if that works go with it.

 

Work with a cold eng if possible.

If your radio needs a code to re-activate it after loosing power, find out what it is.

Disconnect the battery before you even think abt crawling under the car.

Make sure to position the removed batt cable so it won't return to the batt post on its own.

Disconnect the wires from the starter before you un-bolt it if possible.

Pay attention to which wire goes where.

There may be an extra brace on the foward-most end of the starter. If there is, unbolt it first.

Don't let it smack you in the face when it comes loose.

Position yourself under the car so the starter is over your chest.
If you're reaching at an awkward angle, the starter gets real heavy real quick! Especially important when re-installing starter.