Slow cranking issue
Thread Starter
|
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 320
Likes: 1
From: Vancouver Island, BC
Slow cranking issue
Ok so I have been having a slow cranking problem that has gotten worse over the last couple of days and now it's to the point where I can't even come close to starting.
- My batteries are good because I've swapped out 2 spare batteries that I know are good and freshly charged them first. No change.
- I changed the starter out for a spare that I also know is in excellent condition. No change.
- Connections at the batteries are very clean and tight.
I just checked the ground cable that connects the engine block to the battery (next to the fuel lift pump) and it looks pretty rough! I'm hoping that changing that will make the difference.
- My batteries are good because I've swapped out 2 spare batteries that I know are good and freshly charged them first. No change.
- I changed the starter out for a spare that I also know is in excellent condition. No change.
- Connections at the batteries are very clean and tight.
I just checked the ground cable that connects the engine block to the battery (next to the fuel lift pump) and it looks pretty rough! I'm hoping that changing that will make the difference.
Thread Starter
|
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 320
Likes: 1
From: Vancouver Island, BC
Trending Topics
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 10,501
Likes: 5
From: Faibanks Ak.
It takes a lot of juice to spin these motors, What size batteries did you install.
Make sure your grounds where the cables hook to the block are clean and tight.
A lot of the time your hot cable will be swollen under the insulation right at the battery cable, if you cut the insulation and peel it back you will find it green with corrosion.
I have even seen the starter mounting surfaces dirty and corroded enough to not let one spin right.
Make sure your grounds where the cables hook to the block are clean and tight.
A lot of the time your hot cable will be swollen under the insulation right at the battery cable, if you cut the insulation and peel it back you will find it green with corrosion.
I have even seen the starter mounting surfaces dirty and corroded enough to not let one spin right.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
New User
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
I had a similar problem with my truck when it was hot. When my truck was cold it would start perfectly and when it was hot it would barely turn over. I ended up getting a new starter which didn't make any difference. The fix for the problem was two new 1025 CCA batteries. I had my old ones tested by a diesel mechanic with a snap on load tester and they tested good, but I haven't had a slow crank since I replaced the batteries. Just my 2 pennies
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 406
Likes: 0
From: NW Ga
The wire to the batteries can be bad in coming from either battery or at the starter. It can even be bad inside the lead connector. Shove a voltage meter lead into the battery further-est from the starter. Lay the meter on the hood and crank the motor for several seconds and watch the voltage drop. Repeat the process at the other battery and at the battery. Oh if its at the battery they will both have the same voltage and this test won't work. If one shows a significant drop in voltage you have section of wire to replace. To test the lead connector shove your lead between the battery terminal and the lead connectors and repeat the process. I had one that looked perfect but wouldn't crank till I cut he ends of the battery cable and put $3 cheapo on it. It has been running for years now. Just think if its not the batteries or starter its in the wires!!!! Clean the connections and if that doesn't help find someone who is good with electrical stuff if you aren't.
Thread Starter
|
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 320
Likes: 1
From: Vancouver Island, BC
Thanks for the help guys.
Turns out both the sets of batteries i used were garbage. $300 later i have a pair of 850CCA new batteries. Helped enough to start truck but still slow. Tomorrow im making 2/0 cables brand new. If that doesnt work i suppose both my starters are shot too.
Turns out both the sets of batteries i used were garbage. $300 later i have a pair of 850CCA new batteries. Helped enough to start truck but still slow. Tomorrow im making 2/0 cables brand new. If that doesnt work i suppose both my starters are shot too.