Slow turn over

[Werther]

I recently purchased this 89 250. When i bought it, it would crank up, but the starter sounded a bit underpowered. Now it's cold here in NC and the starter barely rolls over a few times before ceasing when i try to start.

Both batteries are good
I cleaned all connections from terminals, relay, grounds, and to the starter
Removed starter and tested, seems to spin fine

I dont have any other ideas.

Additionally, there are other electrical problems with the gauges. The fuel and temp gauges will give rapid incorrect readings at certain times while driving. Not sure if these could be related, I'm just not familiar with the electrical system on this truck yet.

[jsgarret]

What are the cranking amps on your batteries? Maybe someone has put too small of battery in there and thats what your fighting. With any diesel I have ever had, I never put a battery under 1000 CCA in them so I know it will be there. 0 degrees outside tends to test them so I need to rely on them.

[bitsy0516]

If the batteries have the correct cranking amps, what kind of oil are you using would be my next question. Here in Wisconsin if I use anything other than 5w40 synthetic over the winter my truck will spin over real slow because the oil can become thick as paste. Just a thought...

[Mototime2000]

Check the resistance on the battery cables. I would recommend replacing the factory starter with the gear reduction starter. I haven't personally done it to my truck but when I need one, thats the one I am getting.

[500hp2500]

the starter on my old idi done the same thing the starter will test fine but it will still be wore out. so you will be probably taking it back off and putting a new on on