toyota
2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Engine Starter Removal And Installation Instructions
By Viktor G · Certified Master Technician
Replace the starter assembly on a 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra 5.7L, also applicable to Sequoia, Land Cruiser LC200, and Lexus LX570. Requires exhaust manifold removal.
Skill Level: Advanced
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Product links below are affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
Parts Needed
Tools Needed
Tips & Tricks
- →Apply penetrating oil to all exhaust nuts before removal as they are usually rusty
- →Use a shallow 12mm 1/4 inch socket on a swivel with a 1/4 inch extension, then an adapter to 3/8 and a 3/8 extension and ratchet to reach all passenger side exhaust manifold nuts
- →Make sure the socket isn't so shallow that it doesn't clear over the stud, or it won't grab the nut fully and may round it off
- →The two most challenging nuts are the top front nut and the one second from the front on the top row
- →Clean the cylinder head mating surface with a sharp razor blade then smooth with a scour pad — do not use a grinder or power wheel as it can damage the aluminum and cause exhaust leaks
- →The manifold is steel so a grinder or wire wheel can be used on it carefully, but avoid aggressive sandpaper wheels
- →Remove the bolt holding the transmission coolant pipes to gain access to the top 14mm starter bolt
- →The starter may be stuck and require gentle prying to remove
- →Remove the small heat shield nuts to make exhaust manifold removal easier
- →Plug in the single wire connector before installing the main 12mm starter terminal nut
Torque Specs
| Fastener | Spec |
|---|---|
| Starter bolts | 27 ft-lbs |
| Transmission coolant pipe bolt | 12 ft-lbs |
| Starter main terminal nut (12mm) | 7 ft-lbs |
| Starter cover heat shield bolts | 7 ft-lbs |
| Exhaust manifold 12mm nuts | 15 ft-lbs |
| Exhaust manifold 10mm nuts | 7 ft-lbs |
| Small heat shield nuts | 4 ft-lbs |
| Large manifold heat shield nuts | 7 ft-lbs |
| Dipstick tube bolt | 6 ft-lbs |
| Heat shield nuts (4) | 4 ft-lbs |
| Exhaust pipe nuts (3) | 40 ft-lbs |
| Exhaust pipe bolts (downstream) | 35 ft-lbs |
| Wheel lug nuts | 97 ft-lbs |