I picked up my 'new' truck today and it promptly refused to start. I could hear the solenoids clicking so I:
sprayed all connections with WD40 after making sure they were tight
tapped the starter/sol with a hammer
Checked the batteries for proper charge (OK)

The truck has been sitting for 3-4 months since the prior owner bought his new truck.

It will start after 1-2 tries when cold, tougher when hot. I am fairly sure the problem is the solenoid(s). What is the best way to test each so I can replace the correct one? I'm thinking I need to put a digi meter on the output of each when someone powers the ign circuit?

The fender sol is just a means to provide a higher voltage kick to the starter sol, correct??

All replies appreciated.

Thank you,

Darwin

 

correct, the fender well relay pulls in the relay on the starter....and supplies additional starting current. Almost looks like a soft start by the prints.

I would start by jumpering across the terminals on the fender well relay with a very large screwdriver,key in the run position, if it starts easy you know that is the problem...if not it is probably the starter.

This is assuming of course all connections are good and tight and the batteries are up to snuff.

 

Thanks Steve,

batteries read 12.8 at rest. I will try jumping the fender sol tomorrow.

Darwin

 

Read battery voltage while cranking. That will tell you what's going on. Chattering relays are often a sign of low voltage.