I turn the key then...

[mjhaltom]

My starter solenoid clicks and all my dash lights go out and there is no more power to anything. I wait a while and the solenoid resets then same thing all over again. Solenoid is good. Seized starter? Last time I ran the truck all was well and I parked her...?

[Busboy]

It sounds to me as though you have an intermittent open circuit at one of the battery cables or possibly inside the battery itself. You should be able to pinpoint it with a voltage drop test when the problem is occurring.

[mjhaltom]

So test between the battery posts and then at each post and the other end of the cables?

[Busboy]

Voltage drop tests are when you put the positive lead of the voltmeter at the positive battery post (not the battery cable) and then while the circuit is in operation or attempted operation, you sequentially move the negative lead of the voltmeter along the circuit until you see a slight voltage reading. This indicates a difference in voltage between the two test points which is to say a difference in pressure caused by loose connection, bad solenoid contacts etc. A good battery connection will show .2 volts drop across the connections. Notice the point 2 volts, not 2 volts! So with the positive voltmeter lead at the battery positive terminal, you would then move the negative test lead to the positive battery cable, then the starter solenoid input stud, then the starter solenoid output stud, starter stud etc. You can also check the ground circuits in the same way. Good luck and keep us posted.

[mjhaltom]

Thanks. I need wiring for dummies! Stay tuned

[kato_pup_dog1977]

The easiest thing to do (and affordable for those without a voltmeter) is to clean all connections very well. This includes the grounds too. Once clean, reconnect and try again. If same problem then swap batteries or jump start the rig. If that starts it, buy a new battery. If not, then buy a tester and find the open short. Most electrical problems are from a bad ground.

[ford76460]

Check the Starter Relay and the connections on it. I had the some what of the same problem. A faulty starter relay and the positive terminal cable were to blame.

[mjhaltom]

Bad ground wire to the battery. skinned wire back and put on a clamp on stlye terminal. problem solved.