1997 Dodge Starting Issue

tg in VA · Jul 6, 2015

I have a 1997 Dodge 3500 with the Cummings diesel and automatic transmission. Recently, when I go to start it, the starter will "click" each time I turn the key but nothing happens then finally it will start. Sometimes I have to turn the key on and off two ro three times, once it was 12 times before it started. The last couple of times it started with the first turn of the key.

Any ideas?

Thanks

Jack B · Jul 6, 2015

I had a similar problem on my 1998 Dodge 3500. It was caused by a bad fuel cutoff solenoid which is located on the fuel injection pump. It is located on top of the FI pump. Remove the solenoid and have someone depress the plunger with a screwdriver and see if the engine starts, the engine will die when the plunger is released. If that is what it is brace yourself the Solenoid is over $700 from NAPA retail is over $1000. Good Luck!

jimg.allentown · Jul 6, 2015

Please re-read the post, Jack......

The man's problem is the starter not turning the engine to start it.

NOT the engine turning and not starting.

From the symptoms described, it sounds like the starter is getting weak. Could be a bad spot on the armature, a solenoid with internal contacts going bad, or just bad/weak/corroded connections. My first suggestion would be to connect a volt meter to the main terminal of the starter - the one that goes to the inside of the starter. Use clips and wire extension if necessary. See what the voltage is when you attempt to start it. If you have full battery voltage, but just a click, you have a bad spot on the armature. If your voltage drops below about 10 volts, you have contact problems farther back in the circuit. Repeat the procedure back along the circuit, and you will soon find the cause of the problem. Good luck!

Bob · Jul 6, 2015

Bad contacts in the starter solenoid.

If you like to repair things, rather than to replace the starter you can get contact kits from various sources, including ebay.

For an example of what I am referring to, check out ebay auction #131485861110

Mel in SW Iowa · Jul 6, 2015

New copper contacts for the starter solenoid are available for 5.9 Cummins for $5-40 depending on where you find them. The solenoid plunger seldom needs more than cleaned up with a file. Injection Pump fuel shutoff solenoid is around $100 IIRC, but can be replaced with a VW diesel fuel shutoff solenoid for about $47, again IIRC.

Married2Allis · Jul 6, 2015

If you are inclined to repair things and have the time, take the starter out and test it on the workbench. This will tell you you if the solenoid is bad. If solenoid works fine, the starting circuit not getting enough amps to the starter. Clean and tighten all connections including the grounding connections. I had a 2002 Dakota and the ground cable had corroded. You may also have cracked battery cables.

Dblair · Jul 6, 2015

get your starter solenoid parts here http://www.fostertruck.com/auto-starter-parts.html

1997 Dodge Starting Issue

tg in VA

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Jack B

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jimg.allentown

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Bob

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Mel in SW Iowa

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Married2Allis

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Dblair

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