Starter solenoid smoking?

2002 FORD F-150
189 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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BILL TEXEIRA
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hi, I just replaced the A/C compressor and accumulator in my truck listed above. When I started it the starter sounded kind of loud and then the starter solenoid started to smoke then made lots of noise. I shut the truck off, looked at wiring that is in front of the accumulator and seemed good, so I replaced the starter and solenoid and bam Same thing. Thinking I may have something wrong after I put the new accumulator on. Please help.
May 26, 2023 at 4:51 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

Have you checked for any disconnected, damaged, or pinched wires? It's odd that there is something shorting, but none of the fuses are failing.

Also, does this only happen when the key is in the start position?

The A/C compressor/accumulator shouldn't have anything to do with the starter motor. Let me know.

I attached the wiring schematic below for the starter circuit so that you have a reference.

Let me know if anything as far as the wiring was moved, disconnected, or changed with the starter circuit. I have a feeling we have a pinched wire at some point.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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May 27, 2023 at 12:05 AM