Starter question & idling update...

Does anyone know what makes a starter stick when it's very cold outdoors? Everytime I start the engine the starter doesn't dis-engage. Even after I shut it off it keeps on cranking for about 5-10 seconds before it stops, then I can start the engine normally without any problem. I was told a weak battery will do this but I don't believe it cause it starts fine when it's not bitterly cold out. Oh yeah, the idling problem remains to be solved. Took it to a shop for a diagnosis and was told nothing was wrong with the truck. I guess it's OK to stall every time I stop for a traffic light....must be a normal thing nowadays. I did get it to stop stalling now though, I retarded the timing and it stays running but gas mileage is pretty gross now. I do notice that the idle gets extremely low when it goes into gear but at least it isn't stalling at stop lights now...for a little while anyway. I do notice when I hold the throttle in park about 1/2 way the motor "bucks" like crazy and the cab starts to smell like an elephant took a dump in it...anyone know what might cause this?? TIA for any help!

Reply to
Robbo
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Could be a loose or missing starter mounting bolt as well. The cold may just be coincidental.

Reply to
Sherrie

Could be the starter solenoid is dirty inside, causing the plunger to stick inside the bore. OR the contacts could be worn unevenly and this too can cause sticking due to the way the plunger hits both contacts, if one is lower than the other, the plunger can get stuck:

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Did you follow any of the suggestions in the earlier thread you posted?

-- Roger

Reply to
Roger Brown

If there is any grease or oil in the solenoid, this grease or oil will thicken when it is cold, causing the solenoid to stick. Take it apart and clean it up, and all should be fine.

Reply to
guess

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