I have a 1999 4.6 F150 that from time to time I have to engage the key several times befroe the starter engages. All elect. works and the starter switch on the fire wall has been replaced. Any Ideas

 

Does it do anything when you go to the start position, like the starter is turning but the motor isn't? Or does it make a click and nothing else, etc.

Gonna need a little more info to get some ideas.

Jamie D.

 

try jumping a wire between the battery and ignition posts on the firewall solenoid, if it cranks everytime, then probably your ignition switch.

 

Sorry for a lack of info - 1st timer - when the key is turned to the start position - I get just a click at the starter selenoid - on the firewall like when a low battery is has the power to move the ben****s but not enough to rotate the fly wheel - I just went out and it rotated first turn - all occasions has been with 100% humidity/cloudy/drizzly

 

Have you tried cleaning your battery connections and checking the condition of your cables?

 

Well it's most likely one of 4 things,

1. Weak battery
If you have an old battery you should be able to get it tested at most places that sell batterys.

2. Bad battery cables or connections.
The cables can corrode on the inside under the coating were it can't be seen. To test this run your jumper cables from the neg battery post to the bolt where the neg battery cable attaches to your starter. For the connections make sure they are clean and tight.

3. Solenoid.
Sounds like you have replaced this. The new one can be tested by running a wire for the Pos battery terminal to the small post on the Solenoid.

4. The Starter
Either it has some bad spots or it is just failing.

You will have to do some of these tests while it is acting up of course.

 

I forgot to mention a loose wire on the starter, could be that as well.