Archived No cranking / turning over

[purdytj]

No cranking / turning over: 98, 12-valve, Iowa

I try to turn the truck over and hear a loud click, but no cranking. If I release the key to the run position then go back to start, there is another audible, but less loud, click.



Here is the longer story...

I changed the fuel filter. Filled it with diesel, primed it with the manual pump, then turned the truck over. It cranked, but no fire. I tried a couple more times, once cranking for about 20 seconds. Then the truck clicked and didn't turn over any more, so I thought I killed the batteries. I got out to see diesel all over the ground because I had apparently not properly reinstalled the fuel filter assembly. I'm sick of the crap design of the fuel filter assembly on the 98 truck so I ordered and installed the Geno's fuel filter assembly kit for the 94-96 vintage trucks. Now, I try to start and don't even crank.

• 
  
• I've checked the fuel solenoid.
  
• I charged both batteries individually, for about 7 hours each.
  
• I see 12. 5 volts on the batteries.
  
• The starter has a good supply of positive 12 volt power, tested with multimeter.
  
• I rebuilt the starter last October with the Larry B's kit and it worked flawlessly until now - in fact had turned over better than the day I bought it.
  
• Alternator replaced last summer, but not really related to this issue, I don't think.
  
• Batteries replaced last summer. I've only put on about 6,000 miles since then. (I walk to work)
  
• I have 225,000 miles.
  
• I should have had a helper watch to see me turn over the truck after changing the fuel filter to see the diesel spillage so I wouldn't have caused this electrical problem. I should not have cranked it for so long. Lessons learned.
  

Help!

 

[B.G. Smith]

Sounds like the starter or solenoid. Could also be the starter drive jammed into the flywheel but doubt that. bg

 

[purdytj]

I've pulled the starter. I tested the connections and have power from the ignition.

I took the starter apart again like I did in October... The soldered connections on the new brushes have come loose. I'm repairing them now.

B. G. , Thanks for the help!

 

[Sticks]

Just because you charged the batteries does not mean that they are good. Might have a collapsed cell that is dropping to 8 or less volts once you put a load on them.

The starter windings may be shot, or the solenoid may not be closing to engage the starter - hopefully just the wires to the brushes as you noted.

Not sure about Genos retro kit, but the topload filter canisters from 98. 5 - 2002 will fit, just need the tubing to run from the lift pump and to the VP.

Keep us posted.

 

[DieselLady]

+
You need starter contacts. Plug it right.com has them. ")