Explorer won't start

[Iceman_19]

I've got a 91 Eddie Bauer and when i try to start it, it just clicks from what sounds like the starter solonid. I think it may just be a bad ground b/c the negative battery terminal is a bit loose but i can turn it tight. All the lights and everything light up bright so i don't think it's the battery. Does anyone else have an idea of what it might be. URGENT!! I'M STUCK AT WORK AND NEED MY TRUCK WORKING ASAP!! PLEASE HELP!

 

[Iceman_19]

Please guys, i really need help, i'm stuck

 

[MrShorty]

My BII used to do that. Cause was a bad connection at the battery. If the cables are getting old, they may be corroding from the inside out. A voltage drop test might be in order to see if the cables are bad.
My Explorer also showed similar symptoms when the starter went bad.

 

[Iceman_19]

I tryed cleaning the neg battery terminal and it didn't work.

 

[Iceman_19]

turns out it was my starter. i hit it with a big wrench i use for work, and it started right away. i just got home, and shut it off, then tried it after a bit and it started right up again. looks like it might have just been a flat spot on the brushes?

 

[nascar_intimid]

turns out it was my starter. i hit it with a big wrench i use for work, and it started right away. i just got home, and shut it off, then tried it after a bit and it started right up again. looks like it might have just been a flat spot on the brushes?

There is no such thing...you starter will last a while longer but it's days are numbered...sorry

 

[Iceman_19]

ok.

 

[MazdaGreg]

Doublecheck that Positive cable that runs from the solenoid (fenderwell) to the starter. That thing tends to get eatin away by oil and road grime, so just make sure it's insulator is doing ok. Also, check and possibly clean the connection at the starter if it looks nasty.

It is possible that your brushes are weak, and that's the only issue also. but take that as a warning sign. IF you can't find anything else, i'd throw a starter at it when you get the chance. Things like that are suttle, but can leave you stranded...

 

[spta97]

Carry the wrench with you. This happened to the started on my 87 sentra of years ago. There were times when I got in the car and was like "hold on a sec" while I hit the starter with a hammer.

Pretty embarassing when you are out with a chick