97 f250 HD 460, 5spd

My truck has been slow to start a couple times. Twice friends have asked if my battery is going. I had the battery checked twice, once a few weeks ago and both times it was good, I think 12.98.

Just now I had my engine off but the headlights on for maybe 1 minute. Then when I restarted it was the slowest it's ever been. It was like starting up when it's 20 below out, probably worse, took forever but it did start.

A mechanic here tested my battery awhile ago and when I started up the truck he said it sounded like the starter was going. Truck has 74k, I've had it since 54k.

Just looking for your ideas.

 

I would first check the alternator to be sure that it's charging the battery properly, Next I would have the fuel pressure checked along with the fuel pump. I can safely assume your have dual tank. Does the truck act the same no matter what tank you use? Does the starter make any other noise than not starting at second to third crank? At some auto parts stores they can test the starter.

 

Mine did the exact same thing when the starter went out. My battery was good, jumping it didn't help & it would run the winch just fine. It just started cranking slower & slower till eventually it did nothing when ya turned key. It would start fine if you parked on a hill & popped the clutch when it got rolling.

 

With any electrical problem the first thing to do is make sure all connections are clean and tight.. This include battery cables both at the battery and the other end of the cable...

I'm not saying you don't have other problems, but if the cables are loose or corroded at any point , they will have you chasing your tail forever.

 

Good point on the cables & connections. I had just done the 3g upgrade & replaced all my battery cables so was pretty sure mine were good.