why wont it turn over?

[kyle17428]

I have a 1996 explorer with a 4.0. I was driving down some dirt trails and I stalled it out (5 speed) when I went to start it back up I got a few slow turns and then the battery died. I grabbed another battery, got one slow turn then that one died, tried to jump start it and only got clicking. tried to pop start it (on dirt) and the tires just locked up. what is going on here? I have a hard time believeing its seized considering it was running fine up until I stalled it.

 

[TestPoint]

Have you tested one or both batteries?

Charging system tested?

Lots more likely than a seized engine . . . but you didn't report on the oil level.

 

[kyle17428]

tried 3 batteries now, and jump starting. starter is getting power and trying but just gets hot. no turn. oil level is fine and no water in it.

 

[TestPoint]

Try turning the crankshaft bolt (CLOCKWISE). If you can do that then replace the starter.

 

[kyle17428]

Ill do my best, not a whole lot of room between that and the radiator. I was also going to take out the plugs and turn it over and see what happens.

 

[Kiliona]

Clicking means starter solenoid engaged, but starter didn't turn. Then you said slow turning. Sounds to me like the starter isn't getting enough power to turn the engine. If you put a new battery in then obviously that wasn't the problem, also it would start with a new battery but then die later if it were the charging system so that crosses battery and charging system off the list of why it's not starting. Charging system could still be bad though but that's not why it isn't starting if you put a good battery in that was charged.

Have you checked your battery cables? i had to replace them on my 96. You can use an Ohm-meter and see if you have excessive resistance on them. I don't remember what they should be.

After that i'd try testing your starter. Pull it and see if there are any shorts in it or excessive resistance anywhere, or simply put in a different one and see if it works.