Tonight I stopped at a store and when I came out the truck would not crank. I tried to move the shifter and it would not start for anything. I thought I was gonna have to get it towed then I remembered there was a big bar behind the seat that is part of the lug wrench. I took it out and beat on the starter a few times and she started right up. I have started it about ten times since and it starts every time. Should I rebuild the starter or do I just need to replace it?

 

if your gonna take it out anyways maybe it just needs contacts. thats what I'd check first

 

Sounds like just a sticky solenoid. A simple rebuild should cure it.

 

i agree that it is most likely bad contacts. when you tried to start it could you hear it click? there is a pretty good thread about how to rebuild a starter.
https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...d.php?t=141395

 

I did hear a click but it sounded like it was the solenoid on the fender. I am pretty sure it was not the starter clicking. Where is the best place to get the starter contacts?

 

larry b.com has supersize contacts, wherever you get the contacts make sure you get the big ones . I had to haul my starter outabout 9 months after putting parts store crap in there.

 

I sanded mine clean, around 50k miles ago, 355k and still original

 

I have read too many stories of guys replacing their starter...after 20 years of service...and then have the "new" starter die in a year or two. Your better off replacing the contacts, and any other parts you find that are not up to grade.

I personally have all the parts to do a starter rebuild on my shelf waiting for the call of duty.

 

If the solenoid sticks while cranking, the heavy current of the starter can cause the solenoid and starter to catch on fire.

Then it is a panic to try and disconnect the battery cable to stop it.

There is alot more to rebuilding a starter than just replacing the contacts, solenoid coils need to checked with a megger for insulation breakdown, armature checked on a growler to check for shorted windings, bushings and snout bearings replaced, commutator turned and segments undercut, brush set replaced.

Everything on the starter can be replaced if needed

I used to do all of this on Delco and Prestolite starters.

Rebuilding or just repairing to me depands on how important it is to me to be able to start my truck.

Is it -30* and you could freeze to death if you cannot start the truck or is it 80* and you are sitting at the beach with a 24 pack in the back.

My truck always has to start, like a fire truck I have redundant systems, 3 battery banks to choose from, if you have ever had a sick child your in the truck and flying to the ER at a minuets notice not having to think if it is going to start or not.

When I need my starter repaired I take mine to a Truck, Auto-Electric Shop and have my unit rebuilt where an actual truck electricain works on it and not someone who was standing for work at a Home Depot parking lot.

If the solenoid clicks it could also be the brushes are worn or bad cables or a bad cell.

Jim