97 dodge with batteries from 7/07. Got them at a carquest, or something like that. They are the "titanium" ones. 800 amps at 0 degrees.

The truck started starting slow, but still started. The starter just sounds like it's at a lower pitch and turning more slowly.

The batteries were tested while connected and my wife was told they were fine. the alternator is fine. I bought a reman starter and brought it to my mechanic.

They tested the batteries together and their little tool said the batteries were fine and the starter was as well. I don't know how to clamps on the battery can tell what's coming out of the starter, but the kid seemed to be pretty sure of what he was saying.

The batteries, when tested separately, were low. We put a charger on them and after a few minutes started the truck. The feeling was that the batteries were weak and not allowing the starter to get the full juice it needed.

I returned the starter and bought two new interstate batteries and the truck is still starting slow and low.

I suppose I need to check contacts and maybe let the batteries get "charged up?"

Why would it start great with the charger on it, but not new batteries?

Thanks for the help

 

your batteries should read over 13 volts if your charging system is working right.
You didn't mention cleaning the cables. Make sure that you clean both ends. You want to be sure that there is no corrosion at either end. Just a thought. eliminate all easy possibilities first.
It sounds like you're back to the original starter. Next thing to check is the contacts inside the starter. they're easy to get at. Just clean them up with sandpaper. make sure that the starter drive is sliding freely, all the way to the end of travel.
Jumper the starter solonoid on the starter to crank to engine over WITHOUT the key on, so it won't start. Or unhook the fuel shutoff solonoid. Crank it for about 20 seconds.
The feel all starter cable connections to see if they're hot. Be careful it could be very hot. A hot spot means there is a bad connection or corrosion there. Clean it or replace cable as needed.

 

well, that's a start. thanks.

it seems like there has to be something bad in between the batteries and the starter. that is assuming the starter is alright, which is what the guys at the shop said.

thanks.

 

check alternator output, should be around 14 plus running. if your output is down the batteries will not have a chance to get charged up. That may be why it seems better after having a charger on it. There's a lot more to this but that's a place to look anyway

 

Don't forget the simple stuff. Make sure the fuel shutoff solenoid is pulling the lever all the way. If it's not rigged right (mine was falling apart) it can have an affect.