stranded in the cold

[prowirenut]

I just got into Hartford, CT airport after a week in Florida and my 7.3 won't crank. The dash all lights up and acts like nothing is wrong until I go to crank then nothing. I had a similar problem with a fuse that blew before but I checked it and it's good. Need help it's 16* outside and I'm stranded in the airport parking lot.

[bigcountrysg]

Is the starter not making any noise. Like a clunk or anything like that.

If not I would check to see if you are getting voltage down at the starter when the key is turned to the crank position. If you are getting voltage down there when trying to crank the engine over. Then tap on the starter it maybe frozed up. If that does not work it may need to be replaced.

[prowirenut]

no, no starter noise at all. Just turn the key and nothing. I've read some of the other posts while waiting but most apply to gelling or after it starts issues. Mine won't even try. I'm going to try to look at the fuel filter housing for evidence maybe.

[MRBP]

Check your batteries also

[prowirenut]

I don't have a voltmeter to check them, I just replaced them about 2 months ago.

[troid123]

I would put $$$ on the starter being frozen up....Can you get under there and tap it with anything?? Best of luck to you!

[95dieselsmoke]

Just to make sure, the truck is completely in park for sure?

[prowirenut]

I got under it and beat on the starter with a tire iron but to no avail. Gave up for the night and got a rental car. I'll look into the starter idea and post what I finally find. Thanks to everyone for the help and ideas. As a side note just where the hell is this global warming thing? I say screw it build more coal power plants and make them diesels smoke!!!!!

[cj performance]

volt meter might do you justice...turn on all your lights on truck and see if they are dim etc...could be your batteries even if they are new..

[cpayne6335]

Just an idea, it the starter siliniod relay relay working on the pass. side fender "clicking"? Over the years, I have had many of them go bad in the winter...... Not on a diesel, but other ford trucks.

If you do change out the starter, I would change out the relay too..... just for some piece of mind. The relay is just like the GPR and AIHR and go out and leave you stranded.