Starter causing power loss

ALLAN D

MEMBER
FORD EXPLORER

Hi,

I have a 1991 Ford Explorer XLT w/a 4 liter 6 cyl engine and just over 100k miles. This issue started out of the blue, no warning signs. I jumped in to go to work and after I turned the key I got one click out of the starter then lost all power (no interior lights, no radio, etc). I tapped on the starter to see if that would resolve it but no joy! While checking the battery connections (they were fine) I got power back? Gave it another try and same issue. Had to leave for work and when I came back I had power again so I tested the starter, the problem started again (no start and no power). I tried a battery from my other vehicle, as the one in the explorer is old and small, and got a lot more clicking out of the starter, I didn't loose power, but it still didn't turn over. I'm back to the 1st battery and replaced the starter yesterday and original issue persists(one click form starter then power loss). Before I start replacing a ton of stuff I was hoping for some advice. I'm on a low bugjet and have no cc so the parts I buy are precious. Thanks for your help!
Allan

4 Replies

TAURUSWHEEL

MECHANIC
718 POSTS

Check carefully the terminals of the battery to make sure neither has a hairline crack. I had the same problem, intermittent issue, would turn the key to start, all would go dead, tap and pull on cables, smack starter, like magic it would start, no rhyme or reason to it. Discovered the solution totally by accident when I pulled the cables off to clean them. The crack prevented the terminal from tightening down securely, to look at it you would think all was okay. Not saying this is your issue, just look them over carefully to discount it.

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Wednesday, April 25th, 2007 AT 11:27 PM

ALLAN D

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Guys,

Thanks for the help!

It was the positive battery cable - I tried getting an after market one but couldn't find one to fit my Explorer. In not wantnig to spend money, I didn't have, I asked a friend come, he confirmed it was the cable and I'm back up and runing by cleaning the cable and replacing the cable connection for the battery terminal.

Thanks again for the help!
Allan

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Wednesday, May 9th, 2007 AT 12:17 PM

RUBENS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I'm experiencing about the same thing. When the key is clicked to the "ON" position, all power is fine (dome, cluster lights, radio). When it's clicked to "start" all the lights dim (headlights, dome, cluster and radio resets but doesn't lose memory) and I get either a click from what sounds like the starter solenoid (fender mount passenger side next to the batt). If I keep trying I get maybe about 1/16 of a turn out of the motor but not enough to crank. I've replaced both battery cables. I used a test lamp on the positive POST on the battery and when I try to start the lamp goes dim. The battery was tested at a local auto parts store and tested good. Alternator was also tested and tested good. The problem is somewhat intermittent but has progressively gotten worse. The starter switch and key switch and starter, have all been replaced (starter replaced about 1.5 yrs ago). Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. If needed I can post a video of what it's doing.

1991 f150 v6 2wd 5spd - 172,000mi.

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Wednesday, May 23rd, 2007 AT 12:25 AM

RUBENS