I have a 1997 F-150 XLT. Recently it wouldnt start and I have seen several problems similar to this on this board. Just heard a click but am able to start truck at solenoid. Upon inspection noticed the starter fuse was blown. Replaced fuse and after four good starts fuse blew again. Replaced fuse one more time and fuse blew right away. There is obviously something wrong causing this fuse to blow. even put a larger amp fuse in there hoping that it would temporarily hold till I could take it in to see what it was..no luck. Can anyone help me as to what the possible cause of this fuse blowing could be?? where should I look? hoping it is a simple fix.
thanks!!

 

Sounds like something is shorting out which is causing the fuse to blow (duh). The starter could be fried (or just worn out) so that there is a short somewhere internally. Or there could be a short in the wire supplying power to the starter. Maybe try to trace the wire to make sure the insulation isnt worn thru anywhere. If you had an ohm meter you could hook it up to the wire to see if there was a short. If you can get to an autoparts store I'm pretty sure they can still test a starter and will do so for free....maybe try giving them a call. Good luck!

 

Check the wires going to the starter.
They usually short out on the upper control arm bracket-on passenger side.

 

Thanks to both of you I will check it out!!!