Starter problem. What does this sound like?

[outatime88]

Some weeks ago my starter began making making a loud repetitive clacking or clicking (honestly not sure what to call it) on the first rotations when trying to start usually when cold. It's progressively happening more each I start the truck. I usually have to stop after the first time I hear and try again for it not happen.

Here's a video below I took of it happening. What does this sound like? Issue with starter or battery? Just as a note I'm not sure about the health of my battery. It's a 3 year old Walmart Everstart that's had some leaking battery acid issues (currently cleaned up).

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5Q9pViihxBA (2nd attempt at starting is where you hear it best)

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

It's the starter "bendix" not engaging properly. It could be a weak battery. Do you have a multimeter to check battery voltage? Below 12.2volts and it's time to start looking for a new one. Also wouldn't hurt to check cable ends both +ve and -ve from battery to starter, making sure ends are clean and there isnt corrosion under the insulation.

 

[Uncle Gump]

You sure the starter isn't loose?

 

[Bill]

Check the battery. Low voltage suggests a discharged or aged battery. The proper way to check the battery is with a load test. There are many places that will do this test for free. If your battery is about 5 years or older, it is almost certain it is time for a new battery.

 

[outatime88]

It's the starter "bendix" not engaging properly. It could be a weak battery. Do you have a multimeter to check battery voltage? Below 12.2volts and it's time to start looking for a new one. Also wouldn't hurt to check cable ends both +ve and -ve from battery to starter, making sure ends are clean and there isnt corrosion under the insulation.

Check the battery. Low voltage suggests a discharged or aged battery. The proper way to check the battery is with a load test. There are many places that will do this test for free. If your battery is about 5 years or older, it is almost certain it is time for a new battery.

I was actually thinking if the battery was on its way out it probably isn't providing nominal voltage/amperage on a cold start when its most needed. I guess this would cause the bendix to repeatedly engage/disengage as amperage fluctuates?

I can't find my multimeter at the moment so I'll go buy one tomorrow and give it a test.

You sure the starter isn't loose?

Almost certain. Owned the truck 4 years and never touched the starter.

 

[outatime88]

Well I ended up skipping the voltage check, went and bought another battery as I was sooo certain it was the issue after thinking about it today...turns out it wasn't lol. Guess it's starter replacement time.

 

[4x4prepper]

Check your battery cables for voltage drops and OHMs. I just fixed a neighbor's 2001 F-150 by cutting off the old terminals and crimping on eyelets with a hydraulic crimper. There are design problems with aftermarket relays and they can hang the starter and they will sooner or later fail completely and not disengage and keep the starter on until your smoke the battery or the starter. I had it happen on a 3.0L and 2.8L. There was a post a few years back on a FSB board detailing the exact problem.