Does the replacement starter have to be the same type as the original? What are acceptable replacements and the differences?

 

Welcome to the forum. It depends on how long you want to keep your vehicle, i.e., you can pay upfront or pay later. Think of it this way. The one that came with your vehicle lasted this long. An aftermarket one will get you a year or two. A badly built unit or installer error will cause the flywheel or wave plate to be chewed up as well (have to drop the transmission to replace that one).

 

You're talking about the Suburban or the Tahoe ? In either case, get the PMGR permanent magnet gear reduction type. They cost a little more, but do the job way better.

 

I m with workaholic. A-1 Auto has a gear reduction starter that is more powerful and lighter than the direct drive OEM unit you most likely have. It may cost more but it is stronger. All you have to do is use the exact same shims that are in yours for proper fitment IF your has shims.