Honda Repair: changing starter on SI, haynes repair manuals, phillips screwdriver

Question
Sorry for sounding really stupid, but what's the best way to learn how to change the starter on my SI?  I want to  do more for her than just change the oil, fluids, filters, etc.  She has a bad spot on the starter and it's driving me nuts!  I love driving my Jeep, but when I want to drive my SI I want her to purr for me. I know this sounds dumb (yes, I'm blonde) but I want to know how to do it right!

Answer
You don't sound stupid at all! That is why we created this site. the best thing to do is to go to any Honda dealer and purchase a repair manual for your specific make/model/trim level. sometimes local auto parts stores will carry them, like Haynes Repair Manuals. just guessing you mean 99-00 civic SI? the starter is located right on top of the transmission on the passenger side on all Honda's 1988-2000. you might have to remove the air cleaner hoses to get to it.
should need these tools:
-10mm 6 point deep well socket
-12mm 6 point deep well socket
-14mm 6 point deep well socket
-Phillips screwdriver
-pliers


disconnect the battery FIRST, neg then pos, with a 10mm.
after you remove the air cleaner, you should be able to see the starter. two green and gray cylinders on top the transmission. if you want to, remove the coolant hoses from on top the transmission so you can see it better. use the pliers to crimp the clamp together and slide it down off the end of the hose but be careful not to tear the hoses! there are two 14mm bolts on each side of the starter. remove them and set them aside.  y might need a flat screwdriver to pry off the starter from the block but it should fall right out. disconnect the wiring harness from the starter. if there are any plugs connected to the motor with some metal clips, you have to remove them from the metal bracket first. press the  clip in and slide it off. then unclip the harness. should come right out. i would recommend purchasing a Haynes book though. they have a more detailed outline with pictures. if your SI is newer than 2000, it might not be your starter. they changed the motor to the opposite side and most those starters shouldn't go out that soon.

here is a link for the repair manuals:
http://www.car-stuff.com/haynesrepairmanual.htm