Getting your TJ turning over again when your Starter won’t start

Battery is healthy, alternator was just replaced and Jeep won’t start. Not even when you try to jump start it. The relay just clicks; the starter doesn’t even turn the engine over. Most likely the starter itself is failed. I know because that’s what happened to me. This video walks through replacing the starter on my 1997 Jeep TJ (2.5L 4-cylinder with 215,500 miles). As a guide, this video should work for any 2.5L TJs; the 4.0Ls bolt on slightly differently.
Amazon Affiliate Links:
Starter: amzn.to/3LE2HoN
External torx (E-torx) Sockets: amzn.to/3e1QGbc
Carbon’s DIY Garage Amazon Storefront: www.amazon.com...
If so inclined, you can send a small financial tip my way through SuperThanks on the video or through buymeacoffee.com/edvancise. Please also consider subscribing!
Project TJ is the chronicling of working on my 1997 Jeep Wrangler. It's the SE version of a TJ with a 2.5L four cylinder and a standard transmission. At the time of making this video, the Jeep had ~215,500 miles on it.
Tools:
• 1/2" and 5/16” socket and ratchet
• E-12 Torx socket (for factory mounting bolts)
Bolt info:
• Mounting bolt torque: 33 ft-lbs (45 N-m)
• Battery cable nut (larger nut): 90 in-lbs (10 N-m)
• Solenoid terminal nut (smaller nut): 55 in-lbs (6 N-m)
• Mounting bolts (2): 3/8-16 thread, 4” long (Parts list says both are the same length)
Disclaimers:
This video is NOT sponsored by any of the brands mentioned throughout this video or video description. All thoughts mentioned are my own. Some links provided are affiliate links. They do not cost you anything, but I make a small percentage from the sale. Honesty is key on my channel, thank you for supporting me!
I am a Do It Yourself, also known as DIY, mechanic. I am NOT a professional mechanic. I do not have any formal training in the automotive field. I assume no liability for anything you choose to do to your car/vehicle or equipment before or after watching one of my videos. All DIY repairs or modifications you perform are made at your own risk. Sometimes, even if you've done everything the right way, you can destroy or damage one or more things on your car or equipment. You must understand this, but by leveraging knowledge and patience, the probability of encountering one or more problems can be reduced.
Also, if for some unfortunate reason, I do give incorrect instructions and something breaks because you followed my instructions, I will NOT reimburse or pay in any way for whatever cost that may be incurred due to following my wrong instructions.
Lastly, please don't do anything to your vehicle or equipment unless you yourself feel comfortable and confident in doing so.

[@CarbonsDIYGarage]

Check out the video description for extra info, parts, tools, torques, and any updates.

[@ForceBuilt]

Haha Ed, I remember doing that Job on JJ. I replaced my factory bolts also. Why oh why did the put e Torx on the starter(clearance, but man it's aggravating). Great job! Love your intro and music lol. Very nice.

[@CarbonsDIYGarage]

Thanks, Steve! This job has convinced me that if I ever have to select fasteners on a project, to never go with e-torx. :)

[@pujo28]

Hey Buddy I’m interested in buying it. Any way to discuss further. I live in nyc area. Hopefully you’re not too far?

[@CarbonsDIYGarage]

Depends on your opinion on “far.” It’s just outside of Houston, TX.
Lots more info on it here: drive.google.com/drive/folders/19GGV__LX8T1Tyro_EmqEx4FNwB5CQabP

[@howiem3883]

Sorry to hear you are selling your TJ. IMHO, the TJ is the last REAL Wrangler in that it still used actual, or designed, American Motor parts. I have noted that they are going up in blue book value now. Heading toward collectible status aided by many getting heavily modified into off road machines. Good stock ones are getting more rare. You might regret selling yours.

[@CarbonsDIYGarage]

Ironically, when you were writing that comment I was signing the title. I’m now one of its legendary “Previous Owners.” It’s headed back to beach runner life. I hope I’ve renewed its livelihood and it has a good retirement.
I’m not in a position, unfortunately, to keep it as a hobby project, so it was a tough decision to part ways.

[@howiem3883]

@@CarbonsDIYGarage Might be worthwhile just to store them, but not many people have that kind of space laying around.
My foray back to TH-cam might just be brief. TH-cam has decided to go after those people that cut some of the BS by using an ad blocker.