My 1994 4X4 Supercab left me in the lurch the other day. I parked at the mall, went in, and when I got back and tried to start the truck all I got was a loud click.
I knew the battery was OK, and checked all connections.While under the truck, I whacked the starter and starter drive with a tire iron out of frustration. LO AND BEHOLD, this did the trick and the truck started and has started well for a week.
But, now I feel I can't trust it. When will it let me down again? And, what if a whack doesn't fix the problem? Anyone know what could be wrong?

 

I'm guessing your starter bendix was stuck, and your hit jarred it loose. I've done the same on a number of occasions with a number of different trucks, but I took heed that the starter had a problem and replaced it in just about every case. Not to say that you'll ever have a problem again, but I would watch it. If the bendix is sticking, something is worn or out of tolerance, and you'll likely see a problem some time again. If it acts up again, you may consider replacing it.

 

You should buy a new starter before you are stuck waiting for God only knows how long for a friend or a tow.

John

 

On my '95 I have had the same problem. There's about an 8 gauge wire with a female spade connector that I figure energizes the solenoid, it has gotten dust and debris under it and really needs to be pinched with a needle nose to tighten it up.Every single time a wiggle on it fixes mine. Basically a short cut,
****-poor design for the application.