Posted: Dec 27 2009 at 12:01pm | IP Logged

Hey all - I have been messing with this starter for a while.  I now don't think that the starter is really the issue.

I checked voltage at both terminals on the starter solenoid.  I have 12 volts constant on the one - this apears tob e directly from the battery. 

On the other (aparently the ignition signal wire), I get nothing when the ignition is turned to the start postion.  This is likely the cause of my problem.

1) I checked the fuses (1 in the cab, 2 under the hood by the relays).  All apear to be good. 

2) Both wires (although hard to see) appear to be properly conected to the solenoid.

3) I have not had the wires off (I can't get the bolts loose - no room)

Where should I bet looking?  Is it safe to throw a quick wire from a 12 volt source to the signal terminal on the battery to see if the starter kicks?

Posted: Dec 27 2009 at 1:04pm | IP Logged

Soooo - What do I try next?  Any ideas??

Posted: Dec 27 2009 at 2:36pm | IP Logged

Talking to myself again.  lol  This truck does that to me. 

So why are both of my wires connected to the solenoid so thick.  Is the signal wire a fusable link or something?  Perhaps that is bad and why I get no signal.

Posted: Dec 27 2009 at 5:58pm | IP Logged

Thanks for the reply frontierguy. 

I did what you suggested in a different way (I think) by connecting (via a jumper cable) the smaller terminal to the battery.  Starter spins - just does not push the bendix up and into the flywheel.    No voltage to that terminal (with the key in the start position) if I don't jump it.

It is an automatic. 

Posted: Dec 28 2009 at 6:34pm | IP Logged

All fixed.  Starter solenoid was fried. 

Thanks for the help.