I think my starter is going out on my '99. The truck only has 83K on it. The starter seems to spin faster at times but the bendix looked OK. I was amazed at how small the starter was for such a large displacement engine. What should I replace it with? Should I go new or rebuilt? My inclination is to just get a new one at NAPA. Is there something else I should consider? Thanks.

Greg

 

From my recent experience with generic new and rebuilt you're better off getting a good name brand, a proffesional/quality rebuild or go to the dealer and spend the money one time. I replaced my power steering pump for the second time this weekend (the first time was a few months ago). The first one was a rebuild from carquest, what a POS, it even looked like a POS when I opened the box. So Friday I bought one from the Ford dealer and it was very nice looking, clean and appeared to have new parts used in it. Now my truck steers like it did when new.

 

Napa is a good choice, they seem to always carry a good product in my experience.

The starter is the same as the 5.4 and 4.6. My F-series CD shows the same part # for all three.

 

I take my starters and alternators to the auto electric shop and have them rebuild them.
The cost is usually 1/3 of buying a replacement.
I know these places are hard to find now a days because of peoples acceptance of the Bic lighter mentality. If it doesn,t work it needs replacing. What ever happened to the Rad shop, Auto electric shop, service bays at the filling station? These things are going to make a come back for sure.
The dealers are all owned by auto groups around here. Which means I get to pay a premium [20% return on investment] to get anything from them or thru them.
So support your local small businesses and spread the wealth.

 

That is even a better option in my eyes, you get a product that is better than new from one of those shops.

 

Great idea guys. I only see 2 potential problems. First is how long the truck would be laid up waiting for them to rebuild it. I use the truck to get back and forth from work. Second finding a rebuilder that I would trust. I can start asking around and maybe someone knows a shop here that does good work. I do really like this option.

 

in most cases it's about 2 day turn around but since you sound like you need it now, I believe the NAPA one will suffice and give you years of service. Mine has given me about 3 years now.