1981 Ford Ranger starter replacement

Positive Engagement Type

Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Firmly apply the parking brake and place blocks in back of the rear wheels. Raise the front of the truck and install jackstands beneath the frame.
Tag and disconnect the wiring at the starter.
Turn the front wheels fully to the right. On some later models it will be necessary to remove the frame brace. On many models, it will be necessary to remove the two bolts retaining the steering idler arm to the frame to gain access to the starter.
Remove the starter mounting bolts and remove the starter.
Reverse the above procedure to install. Torque the mounting bolts to 12-15 ft. Lbs. On starters with 3 mounting bolts and 15-20 ft. Lbs. On starters with 2 mounting bolts. Torque the idler arm retaining bolts to 28-35 ft. Lbs. (If removed). Make sure that the nut securing the heavy cable to the starter is snugged down tightly.

Solenoid Actuated Type

Disconnect the battery ground cable.
Raise the vehicle and disconnect the cables and wires at the starter solenoid.
Turn the front wheels to the right and remove the two bolts attaching the steering idler arm to the frame.
Remove the starter mounting bolts and remove the starter.
Installation is the reverse of removal. Torque the mounting bolts to 20 ft. Lbs.