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Old Dec 6, 2013 | 10:59 PM
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Starter Troubles

Im working on a 1990 F-350 that wont start. It ran then sat for a month. The batteries got drained but even after charging them up all that happens is a single click when you hit the key. It can be started with a pull start but it ran for a few seconds and died. Finally got it to run and the Alternator tested ok so bought a voltage regulator. Ill see if that solved that problem in the morning. But on the click when trying to start it ive jumped it at the relay on the fender and it just clicks. When you try to jump it on the starter itsself it just sparks. Does this mean the starter is bad or is it something else
 
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Old Dec 6, 2013 | 11:57 PM
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starters toast
 
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Old Dec 7, 2013 | 12:03 AM
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I expected as much just hoping it wasnt. Someone had the bright idea to put 1 of the 3 bolts on top where it is impossible to get to so tomorrow will be a blast trying to get it off in the snow.
 
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Old Dec 7, 2013 | 02:39 AM
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I vote starter as well. You don't need a working charging system to start the truck, so the regulator won't be the culprit.

Mike
 
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Old Dec 7, 2013 | 08:29 AM
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That top bolt isn't as bad to get to as it looks. You just need a socket extension long enough to clear the back of the starter.
 
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Old Dec 7, 2013 | 09:58 AM
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Ok I sure hope your right. Im getting ready to go try it. While we are on the subject of electrical the glow plug relay went out and i replaced it. Now it will stay on for about 5 or 6 seconds then it will click click click 5 or so times then stop. Is this normal my 6.9 dosent do this so Im kinda lost.
 
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Old Dec 7, 2013 | 10:04 AM
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On the newer GP system, 87-94, the controller cycles rapidly when more than one glow plug is dead. Time to check your GPs.
 
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Old Dec 7, 2013 | 02:52 PM
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O'reilly sells a starter reman with out nose cone,(this is the newest design I have found, power stroke type that is made to fit iDi) smaller easier to install, spins fast. works great on my iDi
 
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Old Dec 8, 2013 | 03:25 PM
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It came off with out too much trouble since I had 2 people to do it. I ended up getting 3 extensions and going from the front of the cross-member thing under the motor. It spins OK, My local O'Reillys didn't have the one with out the nose cone in stock so i went with the one with the cone. And it starts ok now that I replaced the 2 bad glow plugs. The only things that bother me are the fact it always uses the glow plugs before every start, hot or cold, and the battery light in the dash is on.
 
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