The ignition switch sends 12v to the relay. Relay connects those posts on the solenoid. If you jumped the relay and the starter still didn't turn it would have to be the battery, starter or a grounding issue. Correct? If it's not cranking no need to worry about fuel yet.
I connected everything back up and had no power. Pulled the battery to verify charge and it was at 60%. I'll be changing out fuses next and verifying that grounding is happening, but yes, not worried about the fuel issue yet just thinking out loud with regard to the issue this had when it would start that my Grandpa fought with for some time.
One other question - I see that Motorcraft doesn't make the 4 post starter relay anymore. I ordered what I thought was it but it is a 3 post - 2 large and 1 small instead of the current 2 large and 2 small. Are they interchangeable? I know I may not need to change this out but knowing this will let me know if I need to return the 3 post or just hold onto it.
Much appreciated!
Why are you trying to replace the solenoid if you jumped it and the starter still didn't turn? There should be a hard line from the battery to solenoid, then to the starter. If you jump the posts the starter should crank. It will even crank in gear. I'm guessing you have a bad starter if it doesn't do anything when you jump the solenoid. I had the same issue.
This is a good place to check. The hard line is a single green wire with a black stripe. Make sure it’s in good condition
That was a misunderstanding on my part. Just wondering if it's worth holding onto or not.
I'm thinking there's a ground issue since there was no power after hooking the battery up.
Check that little wire going from the battery cable to the solenoid
Make sure it’s not in gear when doing that.
Not making sure that was the case when trying to be a Good Samaritan once cost me 175 stitches in my leg.
Yeah, I came across a few instances of that. I'm going to see about getting the truck hauled to my place so I don't have to work in the grass and get further along without too much of a time sink.
