Starter problems, I think. . .

[SenorCole86]

I think my starter is shot, but I'm not sure. I KNOW my battery is crap, after all the times its been drained and jumped. But, when my battery has power, the solenoid clicks but the starter won't engage. If I wiggle the wires going to the starter, it will start up, sometimes. This time, it wouldn't. I guess I'm gonna start replacing things, starting with the solenoid, then the starter, then the battery, unless y'all have any suggestions. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[laneiac]

Also try the battery lines.

 

[jules]

Also try the battery lines.

I agree. You said you know your battery is crap, I'd replace that first, then check your wires. A new set of wires (positive to the solenoid and negative to ground) may work wonders. Then you should replace the starter if it still does not work.

 

[88Wrangles]

Re: RE: Starter problems, I think. . .

Also check BOTH of the battery grounds. There also should be a small ground wire coming from the negative battery terminal...along with the big 2 guage wire. That little one's often overlooked.

After that, I would look into the starter solenoid.

 

[Snitty]

I've got the same thing goin on... been like that for over a year, but its REALLY getting bad now... I know I need a new starter, and my battery is under warranty, so that's good

 

[Sparky-Watts]

RE: Re: RE: Starter problems, I think. . .

I'd definitely start with the battery cables first (being the cheapest component). Then I'd swap batteries, then starters. I know, you said your battery is crap, but it could be bad cables draining your battery. Happened to me with my Toy PU. I went the wrong way there. I replaced the starter, then the battery, then figured out it was a $7 cable!

 

[graewulf]

RE: road rage wrecked my DD today....

I'd swap batteries if you have another one to try... and make sure all the connections are clean.. a dead battery can toast a new starter. Make sure it is fully charged first.