Hey all, I am having yet another problem that is beyond my knowledge, hopefully someone can shed some light on the situation. To begin, let me just say I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to diagnosing problems, but with a little instruction, I am usually able to figure things out.

The truck is a '91 F150 XLT lariat with the 4.9L straight 6, 5 speed manual

The problem:
For the past couple days my truck has been having some trouble starting. It will take a few attempts to turnover, and fire up. It was seeming pretty consistant so I just hoped it would stay that way. Anyhow, I just went out to my truck, and tried to fire it up with no luck. It seems like it is attempting to turnover but will not. It just goes "tunk... tunk.... tunk" but will not fire. The battery seems to be fine. Beyond this, I am pretty clueless as of where to begin.

Any direction I should go, or suggestions as to how to fix the problem would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks as always,
Ken.

 

Need to know more explanation: Is the engine actually turning over normally, but not firing? If Yes, then rule out battery, starter, starter solenoid, ignition switch (probably).

If No, then determine if the "tunk" "tunk" is actually the solenoid pulling in, but insufficient power to turn engine over (battery, or bad connection or cable, or solenoid contacts). If the sound is that of the engine turning over VERY SLOWLY, check state of charge of the battery, do headlights work normally, check battery terminals.

imp

 

It actually just ended up being the battery connections. About 7 dollars, for new connectors and anti corrosion gel, and she's back to peachy again. Thanks for the response though IMP, I appreciate it!

Ken

 

Feels good to be able to help, even better to be told so! Thanks YOU! imp