This has been annoying me for a week.

Go out and it just clicks. Sometimes it starts after a minute and sometimes not at all.

Not the battery since jump doesn't do anything either. Banging with a hammer doesn't do anything. Cleaned the battery terminals too.

Seems like every time I try testing anything it starts. Every time I clip the meter to the starter terminal from the ignition it starts. Was trying to test for voltage drop and it starts.

Do I replace the whole starter or just the solenoid or could it be the wires?

Not sure where to look since I can't get it to fail while I'm testing but can't drive the truck since if I'm not testing it won't start at all.

Thanks,
Rich

 

If the starter clicks, but will not spin, then I would suspect the starter motor itself. It can be removed and tested at the local parts store, or out of the truck with a battery and jumper cables. Just be careful!

If the starter checks out, then check the ground system for melted or corroded wires.

 

Just had a similar prob with my 92... Click and nothing.. Ended up being the starter itself was shot (Seemed to be original Motocraft starter) Got a Reman from O'reilly, replaced Solenoid as well (just to be sure) and now it's running like a truck with an exhaust leak should. (have a small leak out still to chase down)

 

Oh one more thing.. the upper starter bolt (near exhaust) is a huge PITA! lol