What tools are needed to remove the starter?

1985 BUICK RIVIERA
90,000 MILES • 0.5L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MR.MSFIOSO007
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I would like to know what tools are needed to take off starter to a 1985 Buick Riviera?
Aug 7, 2025 at 8:43 PM
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STEVE W.
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Not a lot. You need to disconnect the battery negative, then raise the vehicle up. Then you go under it and remove the inspection cover. Then remove the battery cable and start wire from the starter. Then remove the two bolts that hold the starter to the block. Be careful the starter is heavier than it looks. Pay attention if there are any shims. Reverse the process to install the new one. A basic tool kit can do a lot on that car. Something like this one:

https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/tool-sets/mechanics-tool-set-225-piece-62664.html
Aug 7, 2025 at 9:03 PM
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MR.MSFIOSO007
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He did not specify what tools exactly to use like what size socket or if I'm going to need anything else... Like I know how to take off just wanted to know what size sockets to use... Very well then... Thanks
Aug 9, 2025 at 12:00 PM
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STEVE W.
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Generally I look at a bolt and know what size it is, I don't memorize what fits where. That data is also not in service information. However being an 85 I would expect to see nine sixteenths, half inch on the studs, seven sixteenths on the inspection panel. However being that old I would have other tools with me because there are likely replacement fasteners on there that can be different sizes depending on where they got them. Your question asked what tools, not what sizes.
Aug 9, 2025 at 6:14 PM