GMC Repair: Starter Replacement, gmc jimmy, dead battery

Question
For about a month, my 1996 GMC JIMMY V6 4dr 4x4 has been making a grinding noise when I start it. Then yesterday, I went to start it and all it did was one click and that is it. I thought it might be just a dead battery so i jumped it, but there was no change so i assume it is the started. Before all this happened I talked to a mechanic and he said it was the started and that it was very hard to replace, taking at least 3 hours. I was wondering how hard it is to replace and exactly how to go about replacing this part. Thanks!!!

Answer
Hi
Yes it is a pretty involved job.
You have to loosen all motor mounts and the tranny. mount  and raise engine assy up to be able to gain access and remove the starter unit.
As far as time I really do not like to say whether another mechanics time is correct or not. There are ALOT of variables to consider.
Hope this helps.
Just advice from experience.
Good Luck
Pawl