Hi I just replaced my starter with a used one and now it starts quicker but the starter stays on and makes a loud grinding noise while the truck is running. I read it could be the solenoid so i replaced that today and it made no difference. Could the used starter i bought be bad or is there something else i should try before replacing the new (used) starter? Thanks!

Truck is a 1991 F-150 with the 302.

 

It's the solenoid. Whack it with a wrench next time it sticks and it will unstick.

 

I just replaced the solenoid earlier today and it made no difference.

 

Doesn't matter, the solenoids are junk.

 

You replaced the starter with a used one. Do you have a manual transmission? If the starter came from a vehicle with an automatic transmission, it will make noise when the engine is running. Automatic transmission starters are longer and will rub on the flywheel of a manual transmission after starting.

 

Another question, does the noise stop when you shut the engine off? If YES then you got the wrong starter.

 

Yeah as soon as i turn off the truck the noise stops. Guess i'll be buying a new starter, thanks for the info.

 

One other possibility here, you may be getting power from the ignition switch while the engine is running to engage the solenoid.

You can eliminate that possibility by pulling that little slip on wire off of the solenoid, while the engine is running. If the noise stops then you are getting power to the solenoid through the ignition switch. Very unlikely, but just to eliminate all possibilities.

If you still have your old starter, compare the length that the starters would fit inside the housing. After you remove the starter that you now have in there of course.

 

It looked like the starters were different sizes, Bought a new one and it starts and runs fine now.