I am starting to experience a lazy starter on my 98 5.2. If the truck sits for more than a day, when I turn the key I just hear click. Sometimes it takes 4-5 turns, but will eventually start. I believe the solenoid is ok, but the bendix isn't engaging (probably due to crud buildup), or the coil is getting lazy (150k and original starter). If I shut her down and just run into the grocery store (read booze store) it starts fine. You guys think solenoid or starter? In my experience a weak solenoid leads to multiple rapid fire clicking. I just hear one.

Is it possible to replace bendix individually or am I looking at a new starter. I know I've worked on some cars you can buy a bendix assembly (cheap). How much of PITA is a starter swap? Is there a bunch of stuff in the way or it fairly accessible?

EDIT: Just found starter post in DIY section (thanks hydra) and now see the solenoid is builtin to starter assembly. So it looks like a new starter it is. Any aftermarket stuff OK or should I go OEM?

 

both work just fine.. people always have different opinions but either will work.. just dont get a rebuilt one, never had luck with rebuilt.. just get a new one..

 

yup i agree, the only requirement is that it should be NEW and NEVER REBUILT

 

why do you think its the starter and not the battery ?

you might want to have the battery load tested at autozone or similar.
they'll test it for free.

 

Had the same problem with my D. Mine turned out to be the starter....and I agree DO NOT buy a refurb...and Hydro's thread on replacing them is "a gift frome above" (or utah) LOL. I used that thread when replacing mine and its quite efficient

 

most likely because it will start after a couple of trys without being jumped, if it was a bad battery it would be weaker after each attempt to start, and make starting harder until he got someone to jump him

 

Replace the starter.

 

Sorry haven't popped in for a few days. I don't think it's the battery because I actually run 2. Had to add a second for the snow plow.

 

I didnt know the D could support a snow plow?? i wanna know about this snow plow??

 

Sure can. www.snoway.com I think mine is a Predator HD 6.5' blade. They make a kit specifically for the D. But the blade I have is listed as not compatible, but it bolts right up. When you compare the specs the blade I have is 50 lbs heavier than the one they say will fit. I figured that was negligible. I added a second battery not to stress the alternator. I had to relocate the PCM. Also did the T/S lift to get a bit more clearance on the front.

I can snap a few pics and post them.