What is a TSB and where do I find it?

 

I say you just keep throwing parts at it.

Maybe a starter, those are not cheap

 

Already replaced the starter. As sarcastic as your comment may be. Cables have no apparent frays or breaks. Everything is tight. it starts fine sometimes and then just doesn't even try. Possibly negative cable ground to frame?

 

Technical Service Bulletin.

Basically a memo from Ford to dealership mechanics that they are aware of a common problem and have an updated replacement part or have an approved procedure for dealing with it.

 

That's just Brad being Brad...

Checking the ground cable to block connection is always a good idea if you are under the truck to deal with starter issues.

​​​​​​​The 'flag' connection to the frame at the crossmember is not likely to affect the starter.

 

I hadn't noticed this comment before.

Not even a click?
The fender mounted relay grounds through its mounting ears.
Is the relay tight? And the little red/blue wire firmly on the 'S' stud?
You could try taking it off and sanding a bit of paint from behind it to ensure that the relay is making ground.

 

Go throw some more parts at it then. Maybe an alternator

 

The problem started as symptomatic of a bad starter. Replaced with a reman. Maybe not a good idea. The reman starter has been starting but I do not go far from home because I don't want to get stuck. But I have to get gas so I'll have to risk it.

Local mechanic said that the reman starter may have an issue of its own because the truck will start and then all the sudden won't until you remove the starter and then put it back on.

 

There was a cover over the starter made of plastic or metal. Couldn't tell which. But it has two holes that looked like they were burned through it. Could it have been shorting into that cover? Since I removed it it has been starting when I hit the key. Hopefully that keeps up.

 

Had a NAPA rebuilt power window motor that right out of the box would not operate 1-in-5 attempts.

If you run into a situation of lights "on" but no "click" at solenoid, do not discount the possibility that your ignition switch (that is rod-activated by your ignition lock), may have a consistent, reliable, "run contact make", but an inconsistent "start contact make".


EDIT: Later saw your next post. In the electrical world, do NOT rely on anything that looks like there has been any part burned.

 

Right. That was from the original starter. I plan to get a brand new starter instead. Old starter tested out bad that's why I replaced it. But the truck was stuck at my place of work so I needed to get it going that day.

 

How often does a new starter need be be shimmed to install correctly?

 

That's a GM thing, not Ford.

 

That's good to know. I'm going to order a brand new starter tonight and core the reman one. It said something about shims not included and I didn't know if that was something that had to be done when installing it.

 

Where is the block to starter ground located? And how do you get to it? I've been looking and can't find it. The engine is. 5.8