Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Is it the starter??

[scotty-u]

My wife's 2000 has been starting slow the past few times. It acts like there is just enough juice in the batteries to turn the engine over, and then it jumps to life. I had the batteries checked, and load tested, and they check out good as new (2 years old). Charging system checked out good as well. Just today I cleaned the battery terminals and connections, and it started as it has the past few times. (Block heater was plugged in for 24 hours before starting. ) Then, I cleaned the starter terminals as well. No change in starting speed. I have not cleaned the ground connections yet, although I don't think this is the problem. Am I making a wise choice to have the starter rebuilt? Fueling has not been an issue. FF was changed 2 months ago, and only purchase fuel from one station with a high turnover rate.

 

[ata]

It sounds like the starter is starting to drag. Time to pull it and have it checked.

 

[S.Morris]

Going through starter would not be a waste at this mileage. Bad grounds are the other 50% of the equation... ... both sides need to make equally good connection. Also check cross over positive cable for reduced current carrying ability/ internal corrosion.

 

[GCroyle]

Solenoid contacts? Grounds and cable terminals?

 

[Cosmo]

How much oil/fuel/blowby has collected in/on your starter?

My truck started lugging to start, like the batteries were dying, and it was definitely a starter full of oily grime.