Testing starter?
 

Hi everyone,

I have a 2001 Dodge diesel.

I'm new to the forum, been reading for a couple of hours, and will readily admit that I'm NOT a mechanic, but I've taken this truck to 4 mechanics who couldn't solve my issue, ended up finding a solution to one of my problems on this forum, so thanks already.

My immediate issue now is power. In the past few weeks, sometimes it would start, and sometimes it just wouldn't. I've been jumping it to get it to start. Although batteries tested good, leaking and frequently low cells led me to replace them 2 days ago. So I have 2 new batteries, and checked the alternator (output test while operating in place - alt checked fine).

After starting and running smoothly without problems for all of yesterday, I went to start it this morning, and only got a "click" when you turn the key. Don't know if it's the battery cables or the starter - is there a way to test the starter? Although, anytime I jump from another vehicle, no starter problem.

The battery cables had a ton of corrosion from the previous leaky batts - I have cleaned those in every visible area (i.e., exposed clamp areas, though I don't know 100% about possible corrosion under the wrap, say midway or something).

I have made the terminal connections as good/tight as possible. I do think my clamps may need to be tightened just a bit more than I seem to be able, and maybe that 'bit' is enough to cause starting or charging issues. I'm also wondering if I need to just completely replace the battery cables, but man they're expensive and I'd rather not do that, if that's not the issue.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

If your ac/heater blower is working try swapping the starter relay with the blower relay first to see if it is a bad relay. I had the same thing happen on my dodge intrepid. Had to jump it every time, replaced the battery which didn't fix it, then replaced the starter which did fix it. There is a test procedure for the starter which will I can send to you if you want it. Just click on my name and send me an email and I'll email it to you.

Thanks for your reply Bryce; I just sent you an email. I'll try swapping the relay, too, but I'm leaning towards having to replace the starter this weekend.

So...does anyone know which brand is best for a new starter? I've looked at Bosch and Denso, is one of those two better, or is there another brand out there that you guys would recommend?

Thanks much!

Email sent. Denso is what came factory on our trucks but Bosch is also a good brand and I can't say that one is better than the other.