Let's keep this topic specific. Many people will jump to say that new batteries are needed in cases like this. I already knew that I didn't NEED new batteries, but I just installed brand new batteries a few hours ago, because mine were getting a little old and kind of weak. The truck still does the same thing and has problems starting. It doesn't even try to start. Turn the key and it's clicks once (the solenoids I believe), and then nothing. You can see on the voltmeter that it's drawing power trying to do something, but nothing happens. It used to be that using the block heater or jump starting it would help it out, but not so much anymore. I live in Arizona near phoenix. It has to be something semi-simple. When it does finally turn over, it starts in about a millisecond (no problem).

 

give larry b a call not sure of his web site adress. But all you need is knew contacts in your starter thats what it sounds like to me anyway.I had the same problem I ordered the kit replaced the contacts works better than knew.I think the kit is 29 bucks and anyone can change the contacts its real straight forward with the instructions given with the kit.most gennerally you never need a knew starter. just contacts hope this helps

 

Give larry b a call someone will chime in with a web site or phone and order a set of his super stater contacts.Sounds to me that all you need

 

Thanks! Could someone give me the number for larry b or something? I hope that's all it is. Where exactly would I find the contacts on my truck right now? Maybe I can just clean them to at least help a little bit for now.

 

I need some new contacts too, my truck does the same dang thing. It's really annoying when it does it and there are other people behind you (drive-thru)

 

http://www.fostertruck.com/dodge/default.htm here is the web site i think thiswill fix your all problems i know it does not say larry b but this is it i promise

 

If your in a hurry go to the local auto parts store or starter rebuild shop and buy from them I just got two sets for under $20 Canadain and they are real easy to change.

 

This is what bad starter contacts look like. Larry B's will fix you up with upgraded contacts.



Easy to replace. When you are removing the starter remove the hardest bolt 1st.

 

After looking at that website I see that these are starter solenoid contacts. Note that my truck does not click repeatedly. It simply makes one loud click sound every time you try to start it. When you release the key it will click again, because it is then releasing the solenoid, I think. Aren't these contacts just for fixing a solenoid problem? It sounds like my solenoid works fine.

 

no that is the way the cummins starter does. just one click and then nothing hit the key again and click then nothing.i really think this is your problem.replace them with larry b's and they will last longer they are alot wider.just give it a try i am 95% sure thats the problem

 

You need contacts.............I've replaced several sets on a couple of trucks and always just had one click..

 

Thanks so much for everyone sharing this info. I knew it wasn't the starter. and this is easy enough for me to do.

 

You might be able to clean them and the copper washer on the plunger itself, just to get you by till you get new contacts. You definetly need new contacts.

I would buy a new plunger as well. If the contacts are shot, then so is the copper washer on the plunger (the part that slams into the the contacts when juice is applied to the solenoid). Be carefull when reoving the plunger, there is a small metal ball that will fall out. Just be aware so you don't lose it, you will be able to tell where it goes (at the end of the inner spring) inside a bore in the starter.

Take it a couple steps further by checking/replacing the brushes, cleaning up the armature, and cleaning and lubing the reduction gears. Once that is all done, your starter problems are over for a loooong time.

Ebay has some pretty good deals on a kit like Larry's, but Larry has the reputation and ebay is always a gamble. KD

 

Should I actually take the whole starter out like the instructions from Larry say? Is is on the bottom of the truck on the passenger side?

 

I found that their were two different contact sets available when I rebuilt mine-plain copper and copper with a heavy silver contact point. The heavy duty were a bit more. Pull it, it's easy to work on and you'll need a 12 point 10 mm socket. Follow the torque spec-you dont want it falling out late. . .