Ive got a problem and im not sure of next step. When i start my truck the starter spins(not sure on lingo). I looked at my flywheel when i put it on and it looked good, I also put a new starter awhile back. Today i shimmed the starter and it still does it. Not every time but enough to drive me crazy. Any ideas?

 

Most likely it's the Bendix drive in the starter that's gone bad. That's the little slider part that engages the flywheel, and is easily and cheaply replacable.

 

I don't think you ever need to shim a Ford starter - that's a chevy thing.

 

Are you saying when you start the truck the starter spins but sometimes the truck doesn't start?

Are you saying the truck starts, but the starter stays engaged sometimes?

If you are shimming(?) it, sounds like the starter teeth are going into the flywheel to far and sticking, so is the new starter the wrong starter.

I would check for proper part number application and take the starter to your parts dealer and have it's operation checked.
chuck

 

The truck always starts, its just that sometimes it like spins. May do that a couple times and then it fires right up. Only reason i tried the sims was they make em and im graspin.

 

It sounds like you need a new starter, also check the fylwheel to ensure that no teeth are missing however, if teeth are missing it shouldn't engage one it start spinning, so I'm leaning more towards a starter. I would get one if it doens't fix the problem take it back and say it didn't fit, nothing but time spent. From looking at your headers you may need a smaller starter, some headers require a different starter than the original one maybe you could look into that.

 

im gonna check the teeth on the flywheel again. it doesnt engage once its spinning you have to wait a sec to let it stop. then try it again.

 

Sounds like the solenoid is not engaging the starter teeth into the flywheel as the starter motor starts turning. Electrical or mechanical problem with the starter. chuck

 

Weak spring on the bendix or enough crap around it to keep it from working. Rebuild it or replace it are your options.

 

All symptoms of a bad Bendix. Replace the Bendix, or replace the entire starter.