Starting issues

Timmy · Apr 10, 2014

Within the last 3 months I have replaced both batteries, starter and both battery cables bought from ford. No matter if the engine is hot or cold, when I turn the key to the start position the starter will click like it's bad but if I continue to hold the key in the start position, after 3-5 seconds the engine will crank and fire immediately. It's like the starter isn't getting a good enough connection to turn the engine over, it was doing the same thing with my old starter, which is why I replaced it. Any ideas on what it could be? I've got a battery drain somewhere as my vacuum pump and blower and radio will run with the truck off and key out of the ignition. Tired of throwing parts at it and it not fixing the problem. Thanks for the help

Magnum PD · Apr 10, 2014

Could be ground related or started relay

Timmy · Apr 10, 2014

All grounds are good and clean. Is the starter relay by the fuse box under the hood? There is a clicking noise that comes near the fuse box when he truck is off

Magnum PD · Apr 10, 2014

The relay on the OBS is on the right side behind battery. Clicking might be the small relays at fuse box.

Mixedbreed · Apr 10, 2014

When you replaced the starter was the mounting area on the block cleaned really well? Sounds like a resistance problem and that would led to bad/improper ground if you have swapped everything else.