99 Explorer won't crank when hot

[sssss70]

I have a 99 Explorer 5.0 XLT AWD. Just started experiencing a problem. Starts fine when cold but if I kill it after reaching operating temperatures it won't crank. Dash lights all come on but nothing, not even a click. After it cools off it cranks and starts fine. If I try to start it to soon(after it's cooled for a while) it might turn over one or twice then nothing. I can always crawl under and jump across the solenoid to get started... if I'm so inclined.

When it first started is would blow the Ignition Fuse but now it doesn't do that.

I swapped out the relays in the Power Distribution Box but that didn't do it.

PATS all seems to be working fine, light goes off after starting, flashing when stopped.

I'm at my witts end and would really appreciate some guidance

 

[crazymind]

if you have to go across the selinod with a screw driver sounds like the washer in the selinod is bad. i have taken the selinod apart and flipped it over and it worked on other cars maybe give that a shot.

 

[sssss70]

Thanks Crazy. I've never tried to disassemble a solenoid mounted to a starter, is that possible? I'll certainly give it a try. Thanks again for your response.

 

[crazymind]

Just two nuts/bolts and it comes apart beware its under some spring tension so be ready. Its a free check never hurts to try. Your best bet would be to have the starter on a benchso your not cramped

 

[yavapaires]

That is a typical GM repair for many years. Older Fords had a seperate solenoid, so you couldn't do that. Glad to know the newer ones have a starter mounted solenoid. You might want to disassemble the starter while you have it out, and put in new brushes and clean and lube the bushings.

 

[sssss70]

Thanks guys. I'll give that a try. I Will definatley pull it. Is it possible to buy just the solenoid? Starter/solenoid is just about 18 months old but I'll check it out.

 

[sssss70]

UPDATE: I found a replacement solenoid on ebay for $25.00 bucks shipped. Figure for that price is was worth a try. Finally got an opportunity to pull the starter and found there was not a washer on it. The new replacement from ebay DID have a washer. Anyway, swapped it out and seems to have fixed the issue. Several short trips today and it started everytime. Thanks Crazymind!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[crazymind]

Glad to hear you got it all squared away