The 2001 Chevrolet Silverado with the Duramax engine is equipped with a high-torque starter motor to turn over the large diesel engine. If the starter begins to have problems with turning over the engine, chances are it's starting to fail, which means that eventually your truck won't start. To get the starter tested at a local auto parts store, you have to first take out the starter, which should take about an hour.
Open the hood and remove the connection to the negative terminal on the battery using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Do the same on the positive terminal.
Remove the plastic fender liner on the passenger side of the truck, using the flathead screwdriver to pry off the clips. Crawl underneath the truck and locate the turbocharger exhaust pipe in front of the starter. Unbolt the exhaust pipe using the 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and sockets. Pull it out of the way.
Remove the electrical connections on the starter using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket and an open-end wrench. Unbolt the heat shield from around the starter with the ratchet. Support the starter with one hand and unbolt the starter from the bottom of the engine using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Slowly and carefully lower the starter off of the engine.
