1997 Ford F-150 Acts like a dead battery, but it isn't

KDILLMAN

MEMBER
1997 FORD F-150
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

I have a '97 with the 4.6L, after parking it, tried to start it again and it acted like a dead battery when I turned the key. I put a charger on it and it fired right up. Once I turned it off, everything was dead again - no dome light, no dash lights, no radio, etc. After a minute or 2, the lights come back on as if something reset. As soon as I turn the key again, everything goes dead. Unless I have the charger on it, then it fires right up.

I thought it was the battery, had it tested and it is fine. In fact, they gave me a new replacement anyway - but the problem has remained. I checked the cable to the starter and it was tight. Battery cables are clean.

I'm frustrated and at a loss - HELP!

7 Replies

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

Better have another look at those cables, BOTH ends.

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Friday, April 4th, 2008 AT 3:02 PM

KDILLMAN

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks! I did, but will check them again.

If all is still well with both ends - do you have next steps suggestions?

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Friday, April 4th, 2008 AT 3:16 PM

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

There are a few things to look at first try shifting the tranny to neutral and see if it starts, the at the back of the engine on passenger side there is a starter relay, the ignition switch is also suspect if you loose all power, can you explain what happens and how long will this power outage last? With key in the on position check the ignition switch fuse in your fuse panel.

Connect a remote starter switch between terminal "S" and the positive battery post and see if the starter will crank, then turn the key to ON and see if it starts...