So I have a 2003 XL 4.2 V6 and sometimes when I go to start it it doesn't like to crank over right away. It will try and try for about 2 or 3 seconds and either turn over or I will have to try a second time. It doesn't do it every time I get in, only occasionally. It sounds like it could be the starter but not sure. When I changed the fuel filter a month ago it seemed to fix it temporarily. Thanks for any help.

 

Weak battery or starter? Have you tested the voltage? And is the starter dragging when it turns over? Or is it turning over and not firing?

 

The voltage seems fine. What exactly do you mean by "dragging"? It just seems like the started does always like to kick over real well

 

By dragging, I mean the starter is slow, or weak, to turn. If its turning over good, you may just need a tune up. Some new plugs/wires will help it to fire faster.

 

Oh! Well yeah it's definitely turning over slow. Not every time but often enough to annoy me. I just wanted advice before I try to get a new starter or do anything

 

Yeah man. If it were me, I'd replace the starter. I always buy one with a lifetime because they're bound to die again. If you haven't done a tune up lately, it couldn't hurt. The better your truck runs, the more efficient it is. Fuel consumption, etc. Plus its fairly cheap on these trucks.

 

Alright thanks ! Appreciate it

 

Your welcome. There are a lot of guys on here with experience working on these trucks. I try to help where I can and get help too. I love this site.

 

I have a 97 f150 4.2 and was told i need upper ball joints and control arm bushings.I have heard the arms come complete with ball joints??I have extreme wear on my tires so I assume they are telling me the truth. Can someone give me a idea of a fair price per side to install them. Thanks for your help. I am new here and this is my first post so I am hoping I did this correct

 

Usually, you would start a new thread in the section most appropriate for your truck/issue.

First, the upper control arms do come with ball joints. The lower ball joints have to be pressed out of the lower control arm for replacement. You may want to consider replacing these also while your at it. Also check your tie rod ends. If they have any play this is the best time to change them too.

As far as labor, I wouldn't expect it to be very cheap. Its not a difficult procedure, but shops tend to charge a lot for suspension work. Personally, I'd do it myself. A Haynes/Chilton manual will tell you all you need to know. Keep in mind that you'll also have to get an alignment after all this. So costs keep increasing.