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Thu Dec 09, 2021 3:31 pm

Hello, I am replacing the starter motor on my 91 Vanagon and wanted to ask if anybody knows the size of the star socket needed to remove the large bolt that holds the motor.
I was watching a Youtube video on how to replace the starter but it does not say which size it is (not even in the comments),
thanks,
Abel

Thu Dec 09, 2021 3:41 pm

The upper bolt for the starter motor is an 8 millimeter allen drive. Allen drive is an internal hexagon. The torx driver in the photo does not fit it. Of course it is possible that another bolt has been installed.

Thu Dec 09, 2021 5:24 pm

8mm is just 25 thou larger than 5/16" so, if the bolts are not super tight a 5/16 Allen wrench might also suit (assuming you have hex head cap screws).

Thu Dec 09, 2021 9:27 pm

Don't even think about using a 5/16 allen!!!!! If you ruin the bolt then it's a really big problem. Buy the right tool-------always.

Duncan

Thu Dec 09, 2021 9:33 pm

DuncanS wrote: Don't even think about using a 5/16 allen!!!!! If you ruin the bolt then it's a really big problem. Buy the right tool-------always.

Duncan

Ideally yes and sometime you have to do what you have to do.

The Torx is also, coincidentally a 6-sided bit If it fits, it fits. Recently used a large (45?) Torx to remove a 12mm allen plug on a Subi engine plug. Had to use a 3/4 bar to break it free.. Worked just fine.

if you have that sixth sense of "just" tight enough, use it. Yes, stripping that starter bolt can suck....and trust yourself (or just take your van to the Dealer for all its work)

Fri Dec 10, 2021 3:35 am

It’s tradecraft to feel how a tool fits on a fastener , and it’s isn’t found in Fora.

Op has to roll under with a set of toolsand first determine what bolts are present, which may or may not be stock.

Fri Dec 10, 2021 5:56 am

Thanks to all for the replies. Just to be on the safe side, I decided to buy a set of sockets. Hopefully, one of them will fit,
cheers,
Abel

Fri Dec 10, 2021 6:29 am

Abelclasico wrote: Thanks to all for the replies. Just to be on the safe side, I decided to buy a set of sockets. Hopefully, one of them will fit,
cheers,
Abel

i support your tool purchase. having a variety of tools to pick from really helps make quick work of wrenching.

Fri Dec 10, 2021 7:07 am

You don't need to turn that starter bolt with the tool.
You simply use it to hold that end while you turn the large NUT at the engine end of the bolt.
Make sure the battery is disconnected.
The bolt head should take an M8 Allen as mentioned.
The nut uses a 17mm open end wrench.

Mark

Abelclasico wrote: Thanks to all for the replies. Just to be on the safe side, I decided to buy a set of sockets. Hopefully, one of them will fit,
cheers,
Abel