so heres the problem...

when i go to start my 98 all it does is click once, kinda loud. it used to start after smacking the starter on top with a hammer but its geting harder and harder to get her started.

my thinking...

from what i have found on this site it sounds like the contacts are worn. do you think i'm right?
how do i tell if it is the original (sp?) starter?
from your experience is it worth rebuilding?
if it is an aftermarket one (china crap) where is the best place to get a good one that will last?
i found what sems like a good deal for a bosch starter here: http://www.car-stuff.com/store/?Ntt=...5%2B4294963399 (this site also has the denso starters which the "LarryB" site http://www.fostertruck.com/dodge/default.htm says are the OE ones)

thanks

 

Got mine from Fleetsource Brand new Densco starter selenoid that came with the truck when I bought it brand new! It was 262.00 del to my house! www.fleetsource.com

 

is there a problem with getting re-built ones?

 

Larry B has the parts for a rebuild or replace. Probably just need contacts..

http://www.fostertruck.com/dodge/

 

Unless your housing is completed busted or missing, then yours is worth rebuilding. If you don't want to tackle it, then find a nearby shop that rebuilds starters and alternators. If you decide to tackle it, upgrade contacts in solenoid and brushes and it should be good to go. Normally when you can tap with a hammer, it is the brushes not making good contact with the armature. CarlJensen above has the link for both of those parts.

 

thanks for your input everyone!! i am going to order the brushes and super contacts. is ti hard to solder in those brushes? it doesnt look too bad in the pictures. Thanks again!!!

 

My regular electronic soldering iron couldn't handle it, not enough wattage on the bigger than usual wires to get a good melt.

Old soldering gun that I rarely use did it no problem.

 

so what kind of soldering gun did you use? and where can i get one? do you know what temp it runs at? also what type of solder are you using or are you attaching them like they were from the factory? looks to me like they were kinda welded on there somehow.

i am stumped on this one!! i guess i might be looking at taking it to a shop if i cant get something else to work. we had zero luck last night. i did however get the contacts replaced! they didnt look like they were the problem but they would have been soon. thanks!!

 

I just used a regular old soldering gun rather than a pencil type.
Heck if I know the wattage but bet they're all close to the same.
Used electronic solder.

 

awesome thanks Infidel!! i'll have to make a run to rural king or sears and see if i can find what i need. the ones we had were getting pretty hot but the solder wasn't doing the trick. Thanks again!!