Starting Issue

[D Bradshaw]

I haven't taken my '04 to the shop yet because this issue is so sporadic, it only happens a few times a month (I drive my Sport Trac 6 days per week). Sometimes when I turn the key to start the truck it starts to crank then stops for about 1 - 2 seconds and then proceeds to start. When it stops cranking for the second or two, everything shuts down including lights and gauges. It is not a battery issue as this is a brand new battery (3 months old) (it happened with the previous battery also). This has been going on for about 6 - 8 months. It only seems to happen during the first start-up of the day. The truck just turned 80,000 miles. Could this be a starter issue? Should I take it in or just wait until it won't start. I just know when I take it to the shop, it won't happen for them. Any suggestions or information would be greatly appreciated?

 

[EddieS'04]

My first guess is the steering column switch....

Second posibly the starter relay going bad. That is easier than the switch and a easy DIY to replace.

 

[Bob Floyd]

Poor Ground to the battery from the engine

 

[Vic Sorlie]

I agree with Roamer - start with a thorough check/cleaning of battery cables. Is your battery holding a charge, or is it discharging when engine is off? Check the voltage before first start of the day. Something could be causing enough of a voltage drain to give you a no-start condition.

 

[rod denton]

check the connection at the starter , check the cables for continuity , would be where i start

 

[Doug Stewart]

I agree with all those who say cables of terminals to battery connection.

 

[scott degroot]

Definetely sounds like a poor battery connection.