Slow cranking?

Tiny
JOE1953
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 228,000 MILES
Sometime the engine turns over like the starter dragging, I replace a new starter, will Ignition timing cause slow cranking? The distributor been removed before.
Wednesday, March 19th, 2025 AT 2:37 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,187 POSTS
Hi,

If too far advanced, the ignition timing can cause a slower, odd crank. What happens is each cylinder ignites the fuel too early forcing the pistons in the opposite direction. However, the distributor is located in a fixed, non-adjustable position on this truck.

I realize the starter has been replaced, but have you had the battery load tested? Most parts stores will do it free of charge.

Also, a poor battery connection or ground connection will create excessive resistance, and the starter won't get the battery's full power. Here is where I would recommend starting. Check to make sure the battery terminals are both clean and tight. Inspect the battery cables to make sure they are still in good condition. If all appears okay, follow the ground wire from the battery to where it connects to the engine and check to see if it is corroded, loose, or has a poor connection. It would be a good idea to disconnect the battery, clean the terminals and while the battery is disconnected, remove the negative cable from the engine so you can clean the connection.

Here is a link you may find helpful when checking the battery:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

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Friday, March 21st, 2025 AT 7:54 PM
Tiny
JOE1953
  • MEMBER
  • 815 POSTS
Yes, I did a battery load test. What are the volts supposed to be? The battery terminals are both clean and tight. But I haven't checked the ground wire where it connects to the engine.
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Friday, March 21st, 2025 AT 10:32 PM
Tiny
JOE1953
  • MEMBER
  • 815 POSTS
Are you saying the timing can't be adjusted on this truck? Battery load tested out good. Battery connection and ground are good. The battery terminals are clean and tight the battery are good but the engine still turn slow sometime when cranking, what else can I do to solve this slow cranking problem?
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Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 AT 11:55 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,695 POSTS
How did you do the load test? Did you take the battery to an auto parts store? I would replace the positive battery cable, once they get this old they need to be replaced. Also, check the negative cable as well. Make sue the connections are clean and secure. Please upload a short video in your response of the problem, so I can see what's going on :)
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Friday, January 23rd, 2026 AT 8:40 AM

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