Engine will not turn over

DSPRATFORD

MEMBER
1998 FORD WINDSTAR
130,000 MILES

Van will not start. When turning the key only get one click. Thought it might be the battery so we tried to jump start but still get the same thing. Not sure what else to check or test. Could it be the starter?

Sunday, October 13th, 2013 AT 9:02 PM

4 Replies

CADIEMAN

MECHANIC
3,544 POSTS

Follow the positive battery cable to the starter solenoid. 1 to 2 feet off the post. That is what is clicking. It's on the left inner fender panel just follow the clicking noise replace it.

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Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 AT 7:14 PM

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,873 POSTS

First you have to determine what's clicking. It most likely is the relay on the inner fender near the battery. Tighten the two larger nuts on it. Those nuts commonly work loose on Ford products. If the clicking is coming from the starter itself, the most common cause is a corroded cable at the starter. That corrosion occurs under the wire's insulation where you can't see it. You'll need a test light or voltmeter to do further testing if necessary.

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Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 AT 7:14 PM

DSPRATFORD

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I would like to thank everyone that made suggestions. I had the battery tested. And it was good. I followed the lead and mad sure that the terminals were cleaned and tightened. Still no luck. I will be testing the cable in the next few days and go from there. Thank you again.

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Tuesday, April 6th, 2021 AT 7:14 PM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good afternoon,

I attached a diagram for the starting system. Test for power at the small wire on the solenoid with the key in the start position.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Let us start there.

I am also concerned about the motor. Can you turn it by hand to be sure the motor is not locked up?

Roy

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