The engine won't die!

[QRTRHRS]

I had Bob's number with me but the guy I bought from said it would not do him anygood. He whips out a box of contacts, matched mine up and away I go. He had a whole lot of different styles in that box.

 

[FParisi]

Definitely take the old contacts in and match them- I had the starter with me. the solenoid open, but without the contacts removed. The contacts they gave me were not right and the starter wouldn't work. I figured it out- with help from this Great Site. Put the old ones in until I have time + a ride to replace them.

Frank

 

[LarryB]

Thanks guys, that'll be on my list for this weekend.

Larry

 

[QRTRHRS]

Originally posted by Don M

I do know that Cummins updated the solenoid to newer and actually better part number recently. I did the updated one and it was some big bucks. Close to three bills.



Don~

Don, I picked up my selenoid on my way to work this afternoon. Guess I'll burn some midnight oil tonight when I get home. I see the differences but note no change to the rubber boot. Did you need to use the mounting bracket that came with it?



A coworker suggested putting a heavy inline fuse in this circuit should something ever happen again. Anyone ever do this or think it is worthwhile?

 

[Joe G.]

I don't think an in-line fuse would work. When it's working correctly it draws a lot of amps. The problem happens if it does that for very long. The pull on coil is like a starter solenoid. Ok for a while, but will burn up if it stays on very long.

 

[QRTRHRS]

Joe, what should or could I have done then? I think I read somewhere here that if I would have left the key in the on position while I pulled the cables, I would have been okay. Or should I have pulled the selenoid cable off?

 

[Joe G.]

Pulling the big three wire connector apart would have been the thing to do. However, thinking of it while the thing is smokeing is another thing. On mine I have rigged a relay for the white wire in that connector for a couple of reason. It allows me to pre-lube the engine after an oil change before starting it and also serves as a theft delay switch. The engine won't start with the switch off. In an event like you had I could just turn off the switch on the dash. That is, if I managed to think of it. Probably wouldn't think of it and burn up the solenoid.

 

[LarryB]

I think if the starter solenoid is stuck, the starter will continue to run/crank so you would have to disconnect the battery anyway. Though you might save the fuel shut off solenoid by disconnecting that first. Either way it's a hurry up situation.



My additional . 02

Larry

 

[QRTRHRS]

Well, I got everything back together and it runs just fine. Thanks for the help guys. After going through this, I would suggest that owners with some miles on take the part number that Bob Verhoef posted (ASP66-82767) and pick up a set of contacts to have on hand. (The guy at the shop I used said those numbers meant nothing to him, he just grabbed a big box of contacts and matched up my old ones. )



Worst part of the starter is figuring out the correct tools to use to remove it.

 

[FParisi]

Yep, after pulling it,replacing the contacts, putting it back on, finding out I got the wrong contacts, taking it back off, putting the old contacts back in, and reinstalling it . , when I pulled it to put in the right contacts it took 15 min. Nothing like experience!

 

[ccoleman]

Thanks to all for the help. The local Dodge dealership sold me a new fuel solinoid relay for $59. It took 5 min. to change out and all my problems seem to be cured! I have been told that any Napa Parts dealer can sell an identical unit for $35 to $38. The happy ending to this story is that now when the key goes off, the engine dies... ... ... ... ..... Thanks again to all. (Love my truck)

 

[LarryB]

Mmmmmmm... ... Who's advise was to change the relay?



Could it beeeeeeeeeeeeeee..... JOE G?



Good call Joe.

 

[RJ2]

Why can't there be another high current relay ahead of the starter relay energized by a switch on the dash which is left on unless a starter lockup occurs?

Thanks RJ