Community Forums

wlf00 · 06-22-2019, 07:30 PM

Thank you all for all of your suggestions. I bought a 30 amp battery charger that also has a battery recondition mode. The first charger I got did not power up and I ordered a replacement. I pulled both batteries and had the charger go through the recondition process for each of the batteries and then charged them. It seemed to go into float mode in a short amount of time.

Seeing that the batteries were almost 4 years old and were exposed to Florida's year long heat, I went and got two replacement batteries. I had them check the old batteries and they said that both seemed to have a full charge, but one seemed to have something wrong (he did not elaborate).

I installed the replacement batteries and tried to start the engine. Still no luck. I had good experience with Freightliner Customer Service in the past troubleshooting an electrical problem so I thought I would give them a try. They had me check a number of fuses that could possibly prevent power getting to the starter. All checked out OK. They then provided me with a list of a few businesses that may have mobile capability.

I called one of the businesses and they came out to take a look. They indicated that it was the starter itself. They said that they do not see many starters go bad, but it does happen. They ordered a new one and replaced it yesterday. It now starts just like it is supposed to. I am now a happy camper (although one with a little less money in his pocket).

Bill

FatChance · 06-22-2019, 08:42 PM

How much is a new starter? Did it take much to install it?

draboo · 06-22-2019, 08:46 PM

In had a similar problem 2 years ago. I would turn the key, the voltage would drop on the voltmeter, but the engine wouldn't turn over. I would have to twist the key on and off a few times before it would turn over and start. I charged the batteries, disconnected every battery connection i could find and cleaned them shiny, and it still would act up.So I also ended up replacing the starter. The starter cost me around $180 and I replaced it myself. Problem solved.

Chief Alen · 06-23-2019, 06:37 AM

DBelectrical.com they are also on ebay, they sell starters alt. etc, marine and auto's best cheapest place to buy, lost count on how many items i bought from them.

No i don't own the company and feel confident of there outstanding service, and stand behind what they sell.

HJLowell · 06-23-2019, 06:49 AM

Glad you got it fixed.
Most every community has a parts rebuilder and new, rebuilt alternator , starter's on hand.
I had had both rebuilt in an hour while I waited also.
Also
4 state truck parts
And
Finditparts.com
For great service and prices.
Again
Glad you got it going again.

wlf00 · 06-23-2019, 06:12 PM

I left it up to the mobile repair person. He says he prefers not to used rebuilt starters and has a guy who sources all of his electrical needs whom he trusts. He said the starter assembly (starter, solenoid, and what appeared to be a starting capacitor) was $500+. All together, it was $810. He spent a good two to three hours and two trips on site including the initial trouble shooting and starter replacement. He broke a lug on a small wire and had to make another trip to the shop to get a replacement lug.

I am happy with the work and the cost. I know I probably could have gotten it cheaper. But it is done and now working.

Bill