cranking problems

[PAPA35]

New here need HELP. New starter,new battery`s (2), new neutral switch,new wires to starter and checked grounds.Turn key and will start just fine next time just single solenoid click with each turn of key, numerous times then when you think all is lost, turn key cranks and starts. Then, the trouble starts all over again. Please help !!!!!!!!!!!! frustrated. Been stranded too many times. THANKS

[trbankii]

It would help to give vehicle information.

[Robyn]

If the solenoid clicks and the starter does not spin, then the starter/solenoid may be suspect.

NEW STARTER, OR A REBUILT/REMAN ?????
Parts store reman stuff from far too many sources are junk.


Not uncommon for reman stuff to be DOA..

[Yukon6.2]

Have you checked the main battery cables for corrosion and bad connections?
Like it was mentioned the details of the truck would help a bit.How is the starter relay if your truck has one.Some years don't have a relay in the starting system,adding one helps the load on your ignition switch,which could be the culprit.

[PAPA35]

Sorry, wasn't thinking straight. 94 suburban 2500 6.5 4x4 . runs great when it wants to start. still checking grounds but can't find all. Started this morning then nothing but click, readjusted neutral safety still nothing. Readjusted again started right up. Now again won't start. very limited knowledge of diesels , don't know if even it has starter relay. Remanufactured starter but, was having same problem with old starter that is why changed. Thanks !

[Robyn]

Before we dynamite the beast...try this.


Get the RH front wheel off to gain good access to the starter though the rubber wheel house access cover.

Connect a remote starter button unit to the battery lug on the starter and to the solenoid terminal.

You can use a screw driver and simply jumper between the heavy battery lug and the solenoid terminal stud.

See if the starter will actuate...if it does so repeatedly then the issue is likely in the ignition switch (Located on top of the steering column)

Ignition switches do fail.

These switches are a sliding type switch and the contacts wear out.
The starter solenoid pulls a fair amount of amperage and will over time cause the contacts in the switch to burn.

As mentioned about the relay

Add a heavy relay (Ford starter relay) to the starter solenoid circuit to lessen the work load on the switch

[PAPA35]

Ok, replaced ignition switch. Started right up 3x then went back to same thing. Did not use a remote button just changed switch , was thinking maybe overheated starter. Let sit for awhile and started right up. Letting sit to see what happens , started right up again . Will check again later and let you know what happens . THANKS !!!

[PAPA35]

Let sit for 20 min , back to the same thing again, just click ??????

[trbankii]

I'd test the solenoid as Robyn suggested. Also, I gave up on the parts store brands years ago for many things after going through two or three "new" items before getting one that actually worked.

[Robyn]

At this point the fickle finger certainly points at the starter/solenoid.

Before you spend any more $$$ try jumping the terminals at the starter and see if the starter functions properly.

A low amperage issue at the solenoid can easily cause the problem.

A POOR connection in the wiring harness between the solenoid and the switch can cause a low power condition that results in the solenoid not receiving enough amperage to pull in properly.

After reading over your posts again and seeing that the issue is a continuation of an existing problem I am inclined to believe the trouble is indeed a poor connection or wire in the system.

Trace the wire that energizes the solenoid back and see if you can find where the fault is.

A bad splice, poor or degraded connection at the firewall plug..

When you replaced the ignition switch did you examine the plugs that connect to the switch itself ?????

Look at the old switch and see if any of the spades are discolored or show signs of heat.

It is possible that the connector that feeds the starter has loosened up over time and is not making a good connection.

Check the wiring to the neutral switch as this feeds the solenoid.

A bad plug could be the issue.

Dirt, salt or ??? could have fouled the connection.

Stop spending $$$$ and find the culprit at this point.

First jump the starter repeatedly with the key off and see if the problem repeats, if things are fine then snoop out the low power issue.

Good luck

[PAPA35]

So, last night returned starter (under warranty)replaced. Seems to be working, all I can do now,busy next day or two with other projects. Will check a few times and let you know. THANKS

[ronniejoe]

As mentioned earlier, make sure your battery cables are good. They can corrode inside the insulation and limit current flow -- especially when hot. This can lead to your symptoms.