'79 starter problems

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Oct 12, 2004 | 11:35 AM

jrfoscue

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'79 starter problems

I have a '79 F150 with a 390 engine and when I try to start it, it cranks a little bit and then quits. Could it be the starter? or solenoid?

Oct 12, 2004 | 11:42 AM

79_250RangerLariat

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when you say it quits, does it just plain out stop, start clicking, what? Is it cranking fast or slow? Good battery?

Oct 12, 2004 | 12:28 PM

jrfoscue

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I hear a few clicks then nothing. It cranks real slow. I just replaced the battery and battery cables. Also replaced cable from starter relay to starter.

Oct 12, 2004 | 02:08 PM

460me

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Replace the cable that goes from motor to the frame.Good grounds go along way

Oct 12, 2004 | 02:14 PM

jrfoscue

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I am replacing the starter solenoid (only $7) so how do I test the starter?

Oct 12, 2004 | 02:24 PM

mshaud78XLT

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Just Do IT!

Since you have replaced everything in the system (except ign. switch) replace the starter anyway before winter comes so you won't have to do it lying on the cold ground.

Oct 13, 2004 | 01:20 AM

longview1

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From: Grande Prairie, AB

If you have your starter out, grab some jumper cables. hook the positive to batt and to the starter (where the wire goes0 then the ground to batt and press on the body of starter, That should tell you if the starter works.

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Oct 13, 2004 | 08:46 AM

jrfoscue

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Thanks for everyones help. I ended up replacing the starter solenoid (which was rusted on one side) and the cable from the solenoid to the starter. Now it starts great. It even starts great after its been running which has always been a problem.