My starter got submerged for about 24 hours last weekend.

For details click here

anyway, when I turn the key i get all the lights I am supposed to but the starter just "clicks" once. If I turn the key off and on repeatedly I can get the truck to start maybe 1 out of 10 tries. When it does start, it starts up just fine without hesitation. After driving the truck and letting it warm up, I can start and stop it just fine. It only happens cold.

My friend told me it was the solenoid/relay mounted to the starter and it would be an easy and cheap fix. Does this sound right to you or should I try something else? I am about to drive 3000 miles with a vehicle in tow so I would like to play it safe.

thanks!

 

I don't believe you can buy the solenoid separate from the starter. Maybe you can from Ford, but I've never seen it offered elsewhere. Honestly, just replace the starter. I don't know what it is about these trucks, but the starters seem to be damaged very easily. I've had to replace mine because of water damage 3 times now. Never seen anything like it.

If you are going to do it yourself, you'll need about 3 feet of extensions for your ratchet along with a universal joint. You have to go through the wheelwell to get to the top bolt.

I take that back. You might have to do that. My truck is an 02 4.6L. I don't have any experience with the other years/engines and you didn't say what your truck is so I can't really offer anymore help.

 

i just replaced my starter few months back on my 97. original lasted 10 years of new england weather, cant complain. that top bolt can be a pain. get every extension and swivel out of your toolbox for this one. i cant remember the exact setup. ive had good luck with autozone remans. couldnt afford a brand new one so.....

 

Yeah I think I use around 30" of extensions and a swivel at the end. The first time I changed my starter it took melike and hour and a half to get the damn thing off. Now after having done it a few times I can do the whole thing in 25 minutes.