Lately I been having a problem when I crank the engine up, once in a while the engine won't start and there seems to be a grinding noise, but then it would start cranking afterward. My guess would be either the starter(solenoid) or a worn flywheel. I was thinking about taking it back to the dealer, but since it doesn't happen all the time, it would be hard to convince the mechanic of the problem. I'm pretty sure someone out there have encountered this problem,please provide some input.

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1998 Red F150 S/C Flareside 4.6 Airraid, Flowmaster, Snug Lid, Speedliner, Piaa

 

From what you describe, I am assuming the control circuit (switch, solenoid, and wiring) to be in working order.

If the starter engages, the solenoid is probably ok. Generally this condition is caused by a weak field in the starter. A voltage drop test should pinpoint it. This test is required, as there are many possible causes. It is probably a failing starter, but I need to test to be sure.

(Corrosion, loose connections, burned contacts, poor grounds, open field, etc.)

 

crash1, you right, but how do I go on performing that test

 

Fordside, forget about wether or not your dealer will believe you. First thing is, tell your dealer and make sure he logs this complaint now. Then call the ford customer center and log it with them. No matter how many times you go back to the dealership to try and demonstrate the problem, if after your warranty expires you finally find a way to show it, they will have to cover the cost of fixing the problem then.

Log the problem now.

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David
'99 F150 XLT SC, STYLESIDE
3.73, 4X4 ORP 5.4L, AUTO,
139wb, Medium Red Tor.,
Rhino, K&N, BugGuard,
RainGuards, Superchip
f150online sticker!!! GET ONE NOW!

 

cloaker is right. I am involved in the same situation with my clutch hydraulics. If it is under warranty, take it in. Don't forget to hold on to copies of the RO.

The volt drop test can be explained, and is really pretty simple, but requires a DVOM, remote starter (or an extra hand) and a hammer. Did I say hammer? That's no slip, hehehe!

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'98 4.6 5-sp F-150

We've come for your Tundra.

 

This is a TEST.
Just testing my links.

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'98 4.6 5-sp F-150
We've come for your Tundra.

http://www.mcmullenargus.com/gallery...ge=1165&pub=12
trixters-playground@excite.com


A cool site: Post your own!
www.truckinweb.com

[This message has been edited by crash1 (edited 10-29-1999).]

[This message has been edited by crash1 (edited 11-02-1999).]

 

Pull the cover off the bottom of your bell housing and have someone bump the starter several times without starting the truck. Observe the condition of the teeth on the outside of your flywheel. Sounds like some are chewed up. If so, have dealer replace the flywheel. This is not an uncommon problem and it will only get worse. Also check the starter drive gear that engages the flywheel. Good luck!

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Mine: 2000 F-150 4X2 XLT Sport Pkg, Ext Cab Flareside (Black Clearcoat w/dark graphite interior), 5.4L, Auto, 3.55 Limited Slip, Remote Keyless Entry, Trailer Towing Group, 40/60 Pwr Seat, Autolamp, Premium AM/FM W/CD.

Hers: 1999 Eddie Bauer Explorer 4X2, 5.0L, Auto, Tropic Green/Tan, Trailer Tow, 3.73 Limited Slip, AM/FM/Cassette/CD, CD Changer, Remote Keyless, Power moonroof, Autolamp, Electronic Air, Keyless Entry Pad, Mach Audio System, HomeLink, Overhead Console, Rear Air & Stereo, 16" factory polished aluminum wheels.

Toy: 1997 Harley Davidson, Springer Heritage.

 

hey Fordside, I did a search and found this post. Did you find out what the cause was? I'm having the same problem w/ my new 99. If so could you please email, fax, or send me a copy of the service repair so I can show the dealer that I'm not crazy?

thanks

Robert
rcantu@aol.com

 

rcantu, I can't seem to pinpoint the starter problem, I brought it back to the dealer three times already and they can't duplicate the problems. I also the took the starter out and tested and everything seem fine and also brought it to techician nearby and he say it was okay (both the starter and wires on the truck).

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1998 Red F150 S/C Flareside 4.6 Airraid, Flowmaster, Snug Lid, Speedliner, Piaa

 

Offroader,

it doesn't crank once w/ the grinding sound and then it starts the next time.

It did it 2x last night. Gonna take it in the dealer Monday.

Fordside, hopefully the problem will be found.

Thanks

Robert

 

Maybe the starter bendix going bad.
When you hit the starter, do you have to hit it a couple of times to get it to engage.

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99 F150 xlt s/c orp auto 5.4 soft tonneau, rubber maid bed mat,mud from the dirt bike(YZ250)

 

If this is what I suspect, it should get worse when hot (resistance goes up).

The voltage drop test or an amperage draw test should pinpoint it. The problem is convincing the dealer there is a problem (As if you would waste your time going there if there were no problem).

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'98 4.6 5-sp F-150
We've come for your Tundra.

http://www.mcmullenargus.com/gallery...ge=1165&pub=12
trixters-playground@excite.com
www.truckinweb.com

 

Crash1-
What's up with your clutch hydraulics ?

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'95 Eddie Bauer F-150 SC & '64 Falcon/Ranchero
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