Is it my starter?

[KINNEY0201]

1997 Ford Explorer XLT 5.0 V8

I purchased my truck about 3 months ago. Sometimes it will start just fine, one turn of the key and it's on. Other times I turn the key and hear one hollow knock? (not really a click), sounds like it's under the dash. I will have to turn the key 3 or 4 times, getting the same result until it will finally start on the 4th or 5th turn of the key. Would the problem be the starter? Is there a difference between the starter and starter cylinoid or are they the same thing?

 

[410Fortune]

the starter and starter solenoid are not the same thing. Your truck has two starter solenoids, one on the inner fender and one built into the starter.


It could be the starter,. but I would suspect a weak battery first
They can test your battery and alternator at any good parts store.

 

[pax]

I had the same problem. At first, I thought it was the starter, but it ended up to be the starter solenoid on the driver side fender was the culprit.
I got mine from Carquest for $18.00CAN. Replaced it, no more problems.
I took apart the old solenoid to check the problem. I found the contacts inside were badly pitted over the years passing high current to the starter solenoid.

 

[410Fortune]

interesting Next time it doese this try putting a screw driver frmo starter solenoid terminal to terminal (bypassing the solenoid) make sure the key is in on and the truck is in P or N first though...

if the starter kicks over then your culprit is likely the solenoid as stated

 

[pax]

Yes, I did just that when one morning I turned the key and nothing happened. That's how I knew it was the starter solenoid and not the starter itself.