HELP! I went to lunch today and filled up the '98 12-valve with fuel; when I went to start it again none of the dash lights came on when I turned the key and all I got was a clunk when I turned it to start. I tried it a couple more times, turning the key on and off, and then everything started working and it fired right up. The batteries are almost new and the amp gauge is always at around 14, so low/dead batteries aren't an issue. So, I get back to work and shut the engine off. I'm a little fuzzy on what happened next. I don't remember if the engine quit when I turned the key off, or if I finally killed it by letting the clutch out, but the starter started running (it was either running along with the engine, or started on it's own once the engine shut off) and kept running--I tried to kill the starter by letting the clutch out and holding the brake to keep the pickup from driving through the building, and it continued to run slower and slower and finally died. The entire staff came out of my office because of all the smoke rolling out from under the hood from the starter. It was fairly embarrassing. So, my question is, what's the problem? I'm sure the starter is toast (literally) but what actually caused this, and how can I correct it so the new starter doesn't burn up too? Thanks for any advice you can give me!

 

You just learned the hard way about what happens when your starter solenoid contacts wear to the point they can stick. You'll probably need a new starter for sure and most likely a fuel shutdown solenoid + wiring repair. There is a "diode" kit avail that will prevent this meltdown, but I find it easier just to pull the starter and throw a new set of contacts in every few years.

 

OK I have a new starter (rebuilt Nippon Denso, actually) and just have one more question. If my fuel shutdown solenoid is fried, and I put the new starter on, it won't burn the new starter up, will it? My theory is, if it starts and the engine won't shut off, I'll know the fuel shutdown solenoid is bad. I just don't want it to roast my new starter, if it is bad.
Thanks J BODY for your earlier response!

 

Holeshot here's a good web site with loads of info for you. http://www.fostertruck.com/dodge/default.htm

 

Got a brand new starter selenoid from http://www.fleetsource.com/ 260.00 del to my house, note you have to buy on line to get this low price of a Densco starter selenoid.

 

You won't kill your starter. You're fuel shutdown solenoid may have survived, but from the amount of smoke you described I'd say it's done. The fusable link for it fried did it not??? (blue wire at L battery +). One of those "you gotta be there to see it" things.

 

Just an update--got the new starter on today, started it up, seems to be no other problems. The fuel shutoff solenoid must not have fried because the engine shuts off with the key. The blue wire seems fine. So I guess I lucked out! The amount of smoke pouring out from under the hood the other day, I thought the whole truck was going to burn to the ground.
Thanks everyone for your responses!