I replaced the starter on my 98 F150 because the wire coming from it broke off. When I replaced the starter the engine cranks slowly and the battery gets drained. So I got the starter and battery tested and they're both good. I also cleaned the battery terminals. Before the starter was replaced the truck started fine, does anyone have any ideas?

 

Another after market junk starter. Go to Ford and get theirs. New or remanufactured, should solve your problem. Never, ever buy aftermarket electrical products.

 

Even though it tested fine?

 

You might want to check your ground to the frame/eng block.

 

+1 about that. Also check that wire which broke off from the starter.

 

It wouldn't be the first time that a rebuilder painted the starter housing and in the process, insulated the starter case from the block. Do you remember seeing any paint on the starter housing where it bolts to the engine? Pop the starter and check if you can't recall. Make sure there is good metal-to-metal contact between the starter and the block.

If that doesn't work, I can describe how to use voltage drop to check the entire starting system. It's quick and easy and the concept can be used on any electical circuit on the vehicle.

Try the easy fix first. Check your starter for paint. Good Luck !

wormshoe

 

I got the starter to work but then my engine started making noises. I took it in and they said it was the hd clutch and it would be about $550 to fix. Is that a good price and what does an hd clutch do?