starting problem driving me crazy

[khaki]

I just cant figure it out. sometimes it starts, sometimes it doesn't. some times i roll it back 3 feet in the driveway and then it starts. other times i roll it and nothing (click). sometimes it clicks, then i try it the next day, and it starts. wtf? im getting good voltage at the battery and fender solonoid. Any ideas? advance auto says the starter & battery are both ok although im starting to doubt the starter again!

just wanted to say its starting now, and im getting 11volts at the starter. im using the big fat bolt for ground and the silver nut on the solonoid for the positive. so confused.

 

[Mark_88]

Usually a loose wire...you may need a friend to help and I'd lend you one of mine but I'm down to two now...but get someone to turn the key while you wiggle your butt, er, wires under the hood...

Especially the ground wire running to the starter...that tends to shake loose and can cause intermittent no-starts../

It might help if you could post more details about what year, engine, and the color of your eyes...the systems can vary widely as would the symptoms...

 

[khaki]

i tightened all the wires on the starter and battery!

94 v6 4.0 splash super cab. i literally did absolutely nothing but wait a day and it started up. doesnt that indicate the battery is juicing back up? but every time i check its at 11 volts i just dont get it.

 

[kroed11581]

I've had several starters test OK at a parts store, but don't work under load (when in the vehicle). If you have a bad connection, your tester could read 11 volts when you have it disconnected from the starter, but it may dip down when under load. I'd consider a new starter from a good parts store like Red Rooster or NAPA. Make sure your solenoid is grounding out well on your fender well. Make sure your neutral safety switch is functioning properly if it's an auto (although it sounds like it is if it's sending power down to the starter). Clean your negative battery cable and bolt/frame where it attaches to the frame with a wire brush. Good luck!

 

[dennis461]

What clicks?
A relay or the starter?

 

[khaki]

thats lots of good info for me to consider thanks. new symptom: my truck started up fine so i drove it about 20 minutes to my friends. turned it off, and then turned it back on to make sure it was still working. everything fine. go inside and have a beer for an hour and come back out and CLICK. had to push start it to get it home and now its CLICKING every time i try.

Im not sure if its a relay or the starter clicking. i think im going to bring it to my dads he has a better DMM and i will see if i can get some readings under load.

edit: just tried it (1:30pm) and now it works!!!!!!!! WTF!!!!!!!