Several weeks ago, I hit the key (after sitting for a week) and heard only a click.. Several clicks later the truck turned over and started. Changed both batteries and problem was gone for a few weeks. Last couple of days, "click" has returned and is getting worse FAST with every start. Next step? Change starter.. Before I do that, I have read up on changing the contacts in the starter as opposed to the starter itself.. Wanting some opinions in the hopes of avoiding removing and reinstalling the starter twice.. Thanks..

 

I'd check the cables and ends first. A "click" is usually a bad connection.

If you do need a starter I would look into rebuilding your original. It'll cost you about 40 bucks and some time for the big starter contact kit from Geno's. A lot of rebuilt starters out there are junk, this way you are in complete control!

 

I agree. I'd pull, clean and reconnect every place the positive and negative cables land before spending anymore $$ You can't look at a cable and tell if it's got a problem. Check end to end with an Ohm meter also.

 

Thanks for the info.. Ill try it on my days off and hopefully some terminal cleaning will do the trick..

 

FYI 98 99 (00?) have a crank sensor behind the starter, you might want to change that as long as your there. they go bad from time to time.

i just changed mine due to a code, genuine Cummins $54?

 

Guys - doesn't this sound like the classic signs of the contacts being worn in the starter? If it is, KML, then the best cure is new heavy duty contacts and rebuild it yourself.

 

Good advice above, clean up the connections and throw a new set of contacts in the starter. That starter should last forever if it has new contacts from time to time. A rebuilt probably won't.

 

Ok.. Cleaned all connections at the batteries and reinstalled. As of right now its acting fine.. Hopefully, itll behave for 6 weeks or so until the weather warms up a little so its not so miserable working on it.. Thanks for all the responses.. If it works, ill drop a set of contacts in it when it warms up a tad..

 

Truck started acting up again.. Ordered contact kit from Geno's as SIXSLUG recommended for $30 approx. With the exception of the top bolt on the starter raising my blood pressure quite a bit resulting in several fits of profanity, the job wasnt bad. Starter working great now. Original contacts were almost GONE.. Thanks guys...