1999 Ford Explorer Strating problem

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WV2LAPHIL
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  • 1 POST
Electrical problem
1999 Ford Explorer 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

Two weeks ago the Explorer would not start and when attempted the clicking sound happened, but after several attempts the engins started and started every time after that for a week. Now the engine would not start with the initial attempt, no clicking, but the starter seemed to be struggling to turn. On the second and third attempt the starter would turn the engine and the vehicle would start(starter seemed to labor). In every case in the past several days same thing, initial attempt will not start, still no clicking, the starter will struggle but will turn the engine and start. I noticed that when attempting to start that the charging dial indicator will peg fully negative. Not sure if the problem is battery, starter or solnoid. I have read all the previous question on your site and noticed that you mentioned the ignition swith in most of the comments, should I also be concerned about the ingition? The explore has about 130,000 miles and it was purchased wiht 87,000 and nothing has been done wiht the starting sytems or electrical. The only thing was cleaning the idle control box which was full of carbon, but when cleaned the idle problem went away.
Aug 9, 2010 at 8:41 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
It really sounds like you have a bad starter that is drawing way too much power. What I recommend is to take it to a nationally recognized parts store and have them check both the battery and how many amps the starter is drawing. Most will do it for free.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Aug 9, 2010 at 5:01 PM
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