Starter? I just replaced copper contacts and couple of other parts (foster truck)

[raxley]

Went out this morning and it barely turned over. I have 2 new batteries, and a new alternator. It barely turned over, but it started. The next time it turns over , but even slower and quickly it won't turn at all. I assumed it was alternator, because I thought it was low voltage. Guy comes to tow, and we try to jump, but it's doing same thing, it wouldn't even turn over. Guy said there was plenty of voltage, said it had to be starter. I'm checking cables (if corroded) and connections,and after that I'll pull the starter. I just replaced the copper contacts with heavy duty ones (I did the 'easy starter rebuild kit) What type of problem acts exactly like a dead battery?
Difficult to believe it's the starter, it sure acted like dead battery.

 

[JR]

Need to check resting voltage of each battery (crossover cable disconnected). Load testing of individual batteries is also important as it tells the whole story. Load testers are cheap tools and every one should have one in their tool box. I know this doesn't help you right now, so the next best thing is to pull them and have an auto parts store load test for you. New batteries don't guarantee good batteries . Twice I've brought a new battery home only to find out it was DOA. I now check them with a voltmeter before I buy them.

 

[Missouri Mule]

You sure battery connectors are tight? Also check to see connections are still tight(bolts,screws, nuts ) electric connnections!

 

[GAmes]

The contacts aren't the only things that wear out. There are brushes, an armature and bearings. After a couple sets of contacts my original failed because it was flat worn out. Don't trade yours in for a parts house starter, they don't last long. I found a good deal for a new Denso, but that source has dried up. I recommend either finding a rebuilder in your area or biting the bullet for a new Desnso.

 

[raxley]

I found the thing full of 'grease'. What happened is that I had a dripping fuel leak for the longest time. During that time I put new brushes and a new plunger (whatever you call it) in. The diesel made the carbon/graphite wear quickly and it combined to make 'grease'. It also put a rough service on the communitator (the end of the armature that rubs against the brushes. The brushes were more than half gone, and it's only been a year or so. I sandpapered the brushes and communitator, cleaned out everything with gasoline, and it works. It has been going slower and slower but I didn't notice it until I fixed it, now it spins over like a champ. I ordered more brushes, more contacts, another plunger, and a new armature, all from LarryB. When I get some time I'll overhaul it again and it should be as good as new.
Thank you for all the replies and information!

 

[raxley]

LarryB sells a new Denso for $450

 

[GAmes]

The truck supply house I found had them for about half that much. The supply house is still in business but no longer list the Denso starter.