Every once in a while, my truck has a problem starting, as though there is a dead spot in the starter. It has yet to leave me stranded, but sometimes all I get is a click on my first try, and then have to wait a couple of minutes to try again. I was thinking about replacing the solenoid, the battery cables and maybe look into a mini starter. My question is, since my truck has a 1984 351W, should I get the solenoid and battery cable for a 302, since the were no F250s with 351W engines in 1978? What about the starter?

 

Check all the connections, positive and negative, I had a dirty ground on my truck that was doing this. If all is good, I would pull the starter and have it checked, It the starter has been working I don't think that you would need a mini starter.

 

The first thing I would do is check all three battery/starter cables. Make sure they are in good condition, look closely at the ends for internal corrosion. As cheap as they are, anything questionable, just replace them. Use a high quality copper cable. The heavier the gauge, the better.
Make sure all the attach points are clean and tight.
The solenoid is vehicle specific, not engine. Again, use a high quality solenoid. The cheap solenoids have a history of early failure and aren't worth the savings.
I really wouldn't go with a mini starer. The standard starter works fine and is easy to replace if needed. The only time I would use a mini starter is if there is a good reason, like tight fit with headers etc.

 

Thanks for the feedback. If I do need a starter (not a mini starter), do I just get one for a 1978 302 or a 1984 351W or are they the same?

The cable that runs down to the starter is aftermarket and is way too long. Previous owner just coiled up excess and zip tied it. I'd like to make it look as stock/neat, so that is why I was wondering if I just get the factory cable for a 302. My truck originally had the 300 I-6 in it, but I'm guessing that is not the correct cable to order now that it has a 351W.

Thanks again!

 

Actually the starter mounts in the same place for a 300, 302, and 351W so they all should take the same starter cable