Atlanta has seen some temps in the 40's and it seems my truck is having some problems starting. After setting overnight in cooler weather, the truck lugs to turn over but after the first couple of cranks things speed up and the truck cranks.

My first thought was batteries so I had them checked and one was bad. I replaced both with Ford OEM and made sure the battery posts were clean and tight. Also, last year in freezing temps. (20's), the truck took forever to crank. For GP, I went ahead and replaced the GPR since the one on the truck appeared to be the original.

This morning the temp was in the 40's and went to crank. Even with new batteries I got a couple of slow lugs and then it kicked right off. Any ideas?

When I turn the key the voltage gauge goes to what I think is close to 12 volts and the battery light stays on. Once the truck is cranked, the battery light goes off and the voltage gauge goes up a bit, just past half way. Is this normal?

Suspect components I think could be the alternator, starter, or wiring connections. Any other components in this group that could be the problem?

Thanks.
Jim

 

If it's turning over slow, I would suspect the starter is dragging. Pull it and have your auto parts store test it.

 

I agree with Plowhand about testing the starter. Before you pull it, double-check the cable connections from the batteries down to the starter.

It could be a bad starter solenoid (testing should tell you) or loose or dirty connections. Chasing down electrical gremlins is a hassle. Take it slow and logical before pulling the starter. You may discover a worn section of insulation on a nearby wire or cable that is "jumping" across to the starter circuit and causing a short or overload.

Good luck.

 

Thanks guys. Went thru wiring routing from battery to starter solenoid and from solenoid into the top of the starter motor. Did not find any abrasions or other problems. Also checked both grounding wires and they were fine.

Is it possible I have an alternator that is failing? or if I have 8 dead glow plugs would it be hard to crank in 40 degree weather?