Starter bolts

[Wires]

I apologize if my seach was incorrect and this has been discussed before.

I was underneath my 03 MM and noticed that my starter is held on by only two of three bolts. I called one of the two dealers near me, neither had this bolt in stock. One said that "Just two will hold it." Is this common? Are only two needed?

Both also suggested that I buy one from the local hardware store. First, I live in the sticks and I'm lucky to find standard bolts that are grade 5, much less metric of the right diameter and length. Also, the Ford bolts have smaller heads than a standard bolt. The larger heads won't fit in all three positions, and I don't want mixed sizes - it gives the impression that someone just didn't care.

I know I'm being too particular (my wife uses "a" slightly more vulgar word) but I wanted to get some other opinions.

[Haggis]

I know I'm being too particular (my wife uses "a" slightly more vulgar word) but I wanted to get some other opinions.

Well if that's her attitude let her know, don't let the door hit her where the good Lord split her. :bop:

[wchain]

I apologize if my seach was incorrect and this has been discussed before.

I was underneath my 03 MM and noticed that my starter is held on by only two of three bolts. I called one of the two dealers near me, neither had this bolt in stock. One said that "Just two will hold it." Is this common? Are only two needed?

Both also suggested that I buy one from the local hardware store. First, I live in the sticks and I'm lucky to find standard bolts that are grade 5, much less metric of the right diameter and length. Also, the Ford bolts have smaller heads than a standard bolt. The larger heads won't fit in all three positions, and I don't want mixed sizes - it gives the impression that someone just didn't care.

I know I'm being too particular (my wife uses "a" slightly more vulgar word) but I wanted to get some other opinions.


The parts counter couldnt tell you if it needed 3 bolts????? :confused:

[cyclone03]

Hello Dealer (Ray) Help this guy out!


BTW the bolts are METRIC!

[Wires]

I forgot to add that one of the guys did order the parts for me - that dealer doesn't seem to stock anything.

I will need Ray'shelp with some other items.

I'm taking care of these minor things, little by little.

[DEFYANT]

If it aint broke, dont fix it.

[Joe Walsh]

Three bolts are required....I know.....I tore my knuckles to shreds trying to get all three bolts back in after I installed my Kook's Headers. PITA!

[Wires]

I put one of the two I have in the real difficult spot (that was fun, even without headers) so when I get the others ( I had to order three) they won't be any trouble.

That's a good point about not fixing what ain't broke, but I couldn't let that starter hang on only 2 of three bolts.

[BillyGman]

I don't think ypou're being too picky at all. the starter was made to be mounted with three bolts in it, and there should be three bolts there. There are many automotive fasteners (including bolts) that cannot be obtained at a hardware store since they'reoften a special size, and/or special thread that isn't used on anything non-automotive. And that's even if they were S.A.E.bolts, let alone metric ones.


I don't know what you were doing messing around with the starter on your Marauder since you didn't state that you were installing headers, but whatever the reason, having two mounting bolts on a starter that originally came with three, isn't good. Having only two will increase the chance of the starter becoming loose. I'd stay on the dealer until they get you what you need, or better yet, call Ray ("The Dealer") as it's already been suggested.