Starter troubles.

[Rook]

This appears to be a starter solenoid problem, but......maybe not. This is a 98 CAT 3126B 300hp turbo engine. The problem started about a year ago....occasionally, the starter would not turn the engine over on the first try of the ignition switch. Usually the 2nd try did the trick. It has gotten gradually worse and now sometimes it takes several tries before the starter will engage the engine and the engine always starts easily when the starter engages.

Can anyone tell me exactly where the starter solenoid and starter is located? Are they separate items? Left side, right side, front, back, etc., looking toward the rear from under the bed? Is there any other component between the ignition switch and the starter solenoid? Any "quick easy checks" I can make? Thanks, Rook

[rver98]

Can you call CAT and ask them for help? Here is a link to locate a dealer near you.


Caterpillar Dealer Locator

Good luck

[Pat Z]

Originally Posted by Rook

This appears to be a starter solenoid problem, but......maybe not. This is a 98 CAT 3126B 300hp turbo engine. The problem started about a year ago....occasionally, the starter would not turn the engine over on the first try of the ignition switch. Usually the 2nd try did the trick. It has gotten gradually worse and now sometimes it takes several tries before the starter will engage the engine and the engine always starts easily when the starter engages.

Can anyone tell me exactly where the starter solenoid and starter is located? Are they separate items? Left side, right side, front, back, etc., looking toward the rear from under the bed? Is there any other component between the ignition switch and the starter solenoid? Any "quick easy checks" I can make? Thanks, Rook

I had the same problem there are two solenoids on my coach one on the starter and one inside the frame rail in the rear, that one was the one that was bad

[Rook]

Thanks for the comments. I was wondering if anyone had any photos of the starter solenoid location ........or wiring diagrams showing how it is wired into the starting circuit? Rook

[mackpeteno]

From what you are describing it may not be the solenoid.Stand by the engine while someone else turns the start switch.If you hear a pretty loud click at the engine.not on the frame or firewall,but from the engine.Since it is turning over good once the starter enguages.The teeth on the starter drive may have become flat.
The teeth on the flywheel ring and the starter drive are tapered.to mesh they both must be tapered on the outside.Since the starter drive metal is usually softer,my guess because it wears out first.
The bad thing is the starter has to be removed to check it.If it is flat on the out side of the teeth they can be ground to a taper or install a new drive.
Hope this helps,Doyle

[Vintage]

What is the condition and age of your starting battery?

[Rook]

The chassis batteries are in good shape, about 3 years old, sealed and require no added water. Rook

[Rook]

I am now in a location where I can get an assistant to turn the key while I listen for the "click" of the solenoid from the opening under the bed. I'll let you know what happens. Rook

[Vintage]

Originally Posted by Rook

The chassis batteries are in good shape, about 3 years old, sealed and require no added water. Rook

What do they read for voltage when you try to start the engine?

You have two batteries because the drain for starting is so huge. Otherwise they are just sitting there for the ride after being used to start.

[Rook]

Yes, I know that I have two batteries.......and I know that they are in good condition and fully charged.....and when they they connect to the starter.....the engine starts instantly, as I mentioned. The batteries and the cable connections are not the problem. Rook

[Vintage]

Originally Posted by Rook

Yes, I know that I have two batteries.......and I know that they are in good condition and fully charged.....and when they they connect to the starter.....the engine starts instantly, as I mentioned. The batteries and the cable connections are not the problem. Rook

My batteries were in good condition and fully charged and were old enough that they did not have enough starting amps to turn the engine over.

[RLS]

I had the same problem on my 02 Journey DL. It was the solinoid. On that coach it was located on the outside of the frame rail along side the engine on the passenger side. Cost from freightliner was as I recall about 11 or 12 bucks. It looks like an older Ford starter relay, but go to Freightliner as it was wired different.

[Rook]

Update.....phoned Freightliner (these people are GREAT!) and "yes" there is a starter relay and also a starter solenoid!! Both have to work before the starter will turn. As indicated above, the starter relay is located on the outside frame rail and is the likely defective part......it's not exactly easy to get to but only costs about $23.00 to purchase. The starter solenoid is "integral" with the starter and the combination is about $400-$500 for a re-manufactored part!! Stay tuned.........Rook

[Skip426]

The solinoid is on the side of the starter, and there are parts available for repair. Internal contacts arc every time the starter is used. Cleaning or replacement of the contacts could save you a bundle. $20 vs $400. If the relay doesn't solve your problem consider, removing the solinoid cover and cleaning the contacts or replacing them. Disconnect the batteries, and remove the cover small plate held down by 3 small bolts, pull the spring loaded shaft out and check for dirty or worn contacts. Dirty contacts can be cleaned up with sandpaper. worn contacts have to be replaced.
Good Luck