Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Slowwww starter crank

[Bobcat698]

For about a week or so now, the truck has been really slow to crank over.

I have to give the truck throttle to get it to start because it cranks SOO slow.



I have 211k.



Batteries & alternator are good.



Should I just replace the starter?



Thanks in advance

Garrett

 

[MKline]

The same thing happened to me, so I replaced the batteries. It did the same thing. Then finally the starter stopped working. So I guess eventually it has to be replaced.

 

[fortunate1]

You might want to search "Larry's starter contacts". That may be all you need; the rest of the starter is probably fine - save some money.

 

[TRAMPLINEMAN]

I agree with fortunate1. Just change the contacts and plunger, about $35. The first thing I'd do, is isolate and check each battery. Do this first thing in the morning before you start the truck. Eliminate as many possibilities as you can before spending money.



For contacts and plunger, http://fostertruck.com/dodge/default.htm

 

[ttbird]

agree with two previous posts. contacts usually 90% of the problem. Starters are expensive. Use only as the last resort.

 

[TravisG]

Hmmm- Starter contacts. Sounds like a good idea to me Bobcat. Probably save ya a little money.

 

[Howard Durand]

Don't wait very long, I did and it cost me a starter and the shutdown solenoid.

Cheapest components I could find still came to over $500.

While you are getting parts for the starter check into the diode for shutdown solenoid protection.

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Mine just did the exact same thing about 3 weeks ago Bobcat, and it died a week later. It wasn't the contacts or plunger, just a worn out starter. . . windings started shorting out then ultimately blew open from excessive current. Might want to pull it and have it rewound/rebuilt before you burn it out.



One comforting fact I learned from this experience: the Cummins can BARELY be turning over, yet still lights off. Never mind it has 394,000 miles on it



Vaughn

 

[Bobcat698]

Got the new started on, works like a champ! Ditto on the "lighting off even with VERY slow starter"