How to diagnose a starter failure?

Hi,

First, make sure the battery terminals are both clean and tight. If there is a weak connection, it can cause what you are experiencing.

Next, see if it will start if you place it in neutral.

If there is no change, at the starter motor you will see a smaller gauge purple wire. That is the trigger wire. It doesn't have power until the key is in the start position. Have a helper turn the key to the start position while you check the purple wire for power.

If the wire has power, the starter is the likely problem. If there is no power, let me know and we can work backward to see where power is lost.

Additionally, I attached the wiring schematic for the starter circuit below, and here is a link that you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below. Note: I had to cut the pic in half to make it readable. I did overlap the two so you can follow from one to the next.

Hi,

LOL. I'm glad I got it too. I didn't even realize. It sounds like you have the same kind of luck I do. We should be able to get this one up and running a lot easier.

Chances are if there is power to the starter motor and it doesn't respond, the starter is the problem. If you want to confirm it, remove the starter motor and have it bench-tested at a parts store. Most will do it with no charge.

Here is a link that explains in general how one is replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Also, I attached the directions specific to your truck below.

As far as the part you listed, I don't believe that is correct. Interestingly, Rockauto doesn't indicate a 5.3L engine for this year, but I know they came with them.

The OEM part number for the starter in your truck is 10465463. See pic 1 below. I looked up the part you indicated, and it shows a different OEM part number that it replaces. See pic 2.

I used the OEM part number from my manual and Rockauto came up with multiple starters that indicate it is a replacement for what my manual indicates. Pic 3 shows an example.

At the top of the page, you will see a place to put a part number. Put the 10465463 part number there and it will bring up starters.

One last thought. If you order something from them, here is a discount code to get 5% off your order. It's not much, but it's something.

When checking out, there is a place where it asks how you found out about them. Copy and paste this number in there for a discount.

255759021228564225

The code is good until 2/16.

Starting with pic 5 are the directions for your vehicle. Before starting, make sure the battery negative terminal is disconnected. Also, it indicates removing things that I just don't remember ever having to remove. LOL Take your time and check to see what needs to be done for removal. It should be two bolts and the wiring on the starter motor.

Let me know if this helps or if you have questions. Also, welcome back.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Hi,

Glad you got it before they shipped. I'm curious why they didn't indicate the 5.3L for this model year. That is what made me double-check.

As far as the battery cables are concerned, once the negative is disconnected, the circuit is open and no longer complete. At that point, you don't need to remove the positive.

The bolts will be tight but take your time and you will be fine. Remember, leverage is a great thing. LOL Add a pipe to the ratchet handle to extend it if needed.

Let me know how things work out for you or if I can help.

Take care,

Joe

Hi,

LOL If I could only tell you how many times, I've done things like that. Turn the key, and nothing. Then I usually sit and scratch my head for a few minutes, and a light finally goes off in my head and I realize. LOL

Regardless, I'm glad it's fixed, and good job. Take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe