Hi y'all.
'88 F-150 XLT 4x4
Okay here's the story. # days ago drove and parked. Went to start again and starter went crazy (loud scary whine) quickly turned off key but starter and alternator kept turning(chugging). Could not get battery post off until after solenoid was smoking. Replaced solenoid and worked fine for 2 days...then noticed the battery indicating jumping a bit when driving home. Parked and the no power. Checked all connections and then power was returned(touched + terminal and voila!) Tried to start her up and same situation(starter noisy and would not stop even with key removed). Luckily this time i had the -battery terminal on loose enough to quickly pull it.

So the question is what the hell is the cause???

Help!

 

Thread moved to Electrical forum.

-Matt

 

Try a different brand of solenoid. Also try to not to put too much strain on the large lugs of the new solenoid when you install it. We have had a rash of problems with some brands of solenoids lately.

 

I have had this problem several times. The earlier vehicles used a different starter relay than later models and often the parts houses are too lazy to look it up correctly by application or their software has the wrong part number for a given model year. I have found that the earlier vehicles use the relay that has two small connectors and two large connectors. If you get one that has one small connector it will likely stick on you. The correct one should come with a wiring schematic. Follow it in a very detailed exact sequence. Connection to the wrong posts will cause a sticking or complete failure. Go to a reputable parts supplier and make sure they look it up by correct application. Even the dealer has problems with some of thier application charts.