I have a 2006 F-150 with 64k miles on it. When cranking, I started have a grinding noise right before the engine turns over. It sounded like I needed a new starter so I went to the parts store and got one. I put it in and upon first crank I thought the issue was resolved. But, then it went right back to doing it. It happens on about every 5th start or so. Usually, when it grinds, it still starts. But, sometimes it won't turn over and then the all the nedles for the gauges (like the speedometer and tach) will tick back and forth and vibrate for about 20 seconds. Once that stops, I turn the key again and it fires right up. Other than that, the truck runs fine. Any idea what this could be and what should be done to fix it? I appreciate the help and thanks in advance!

 

Get your battery load tested and clean the terminals.

 

Thanks, I'll give them a good wipe down and get the load tested as well and report back!

 

Battery's dying

 

Thanks! I got the battery checked out at lunch today. The voltage was 12.7, but the cranking amps was only 335. I believe he said it should have had 650. I do have a bunch of corrosion on the battery, so I'm going to clean that off later and see if there's any improvement. The battery is original and it says on it it is a 100 month battery and cost is prorated before then.

 

Well, I cleaned off the battery terminals so good you can eat off them. It definitely helped out a bunch! I still have the issue every once in awhile, but it's rare. Still going to go get a battery though.

 

Check your flexplate. There should be a small plastic cap around your oil drain plug, see if there's any chewed up teeth on there. You might have to crank the engine a few times to check different spots on the plate. You could also pull the starter and check from there but I pulled mine and would not want to do it again, the top bolt is a pain.