Starter not engaging

[dairo]

Hello. My mother-in-law bought a used 2002 LS with the V8 about a year ago. It is her second one. She loves the car. Today however, a problem popped up. The starter spins all out when she turns the key, but does not engage and crank the engine. I'm guessing she'll need a new starter. (oh, checked voltage, everything else is normal). My question: She is low on funds right now, and I'd like to replace it for her. I've removed the cables and the bolt that is on the side away from the engine. I can't even see the other bolt though. Is it even possible to replace this starter without major component removals? Will I have to remove the exhaust pipe? Just want to make sure I'm not wasting my time if the other bolt will be impossible to remove without major work. It's late, so I'm gonna start back on it tomorrow. Any help greatly appreciated.

David

 

[owlman]

In the 06 service manual it doesn't say anything about removing other components. Not sure if it's the same for 1st gen.
Anyway here's the page

 

[dairo]

Thanks owlman

The diagram does look similar to what I've seen while working on it so far. I'm heading out there right now. That will be a big help. I'll hopefully post a "success" later. Thanks again.

David

 

[Ch1ll1ng]

What did your voltage drop to when trying to crank it over? I tested mine and it dropped to about 11 which seems kinda low.

I have that same problem but I've read on the boards it could be a relay.