Introduction
A 7.3 Powerstroke starter is an important component of your engine if your 7.3 powerstroke starter is making a grinding noise, you probably aren’t happy. Even worse, the starter is responsible for engaging the flywheel and cranking over your engine when you turn your key. So if it’s not working properly, your truck won’t start.
The 7.3 Powerstroke has a reputation for being difficult to diagnose because there are so many things that could go wrong with it — from worn parts to bad electrical connections. Here are some basic steps you can take in order to troubleshoot the problem yourself before taking it into a shop.
Diagnosing the 7.3 Powerstroke Starter Grinding Noise Problem
To diagnose the problem, you’ll need to check your battery. The easiest way is by removing it and taking it to an auto parts store for testing.
- If they say that your battery is good, then you can move on to checking the starter solenoid.
- If your starter motor still makes grinding noises when you turn on the key but doesn’t turn over or start the engine, then there’s a good chance that something is wrong with your starter solenoid assembly (the device that sends electricity from your ignition switch through cables into a spinning gear inside of your engine block).
- This part can fail if water gets into its internal workings–so make sure there isn’t any moisture around where these two things meet up!
Repairing the 7.3 Powerstroke Starter Grinding Noise Problem
- Replace the starter solenoid. This is a common problem with the 7.3 Powerstroke, and it can be fixed by replacing just that part.
- Replace the starter motor. If you’re still having issues after replacing your solenoid, you may have to replace your entire starter assembly (which includes both).
- Check for loose connections between cables and terminals on both sides of the engine block before moving on to more serious repairs like rebuilding or replacing your injectors or turbochargers
Related: 7.3 powerstroke not engaging
Preventative Maintenance
- Check the solenoid regularly. The starter solenoid is a mechanical device, and like all mechanical things, it will wear out over time. If you start hearing grinding noises when you turn your key in the ignition or if your truck won’t start at all, it’s probably time to replace the starter solenoid.
- Check all cables for signs of wear or damage. If one of your cables is damaged or frayed, it could be causing excessive resistance that prevents proper operation of your starter motor (and thus causes grinding noises).
Replacing the 7.3 Powerstroke Starter
To replace the 7.3 Powerstroke starter, you’ll need to remove the flywheel and shaft assembly from the engine block. This can be done by removing three bolts on each side of this assembly (12 total). Once removed from its housing, you’ll need to remove four bolts on each side of it as well (16 total). Next comes removing two bolts at either end of your old starter motor housing and pulling out your old starter motor. You will then install new parts into place: firstly, attach a new flywheel onto your engine block; secondly, attach a new shaft assembly onto this flywheel; finally–and most importantly–attach a brand-new starter motor onto its housing before securing everything back into place with all 16 screws!
How to Install a New Starter
To start – review our guide on the best starter for 7.3 Powerstroke. We particularly like the DB Electrical 410-52057. You’ll need to connect the battery cables, reconnect the starter motor and securely fasten mounting bolts on either side of where you mounted your new starter motor.
Testing the New Starter
The next step is to test the new starter. To do this, you will need to start the engine and check for proper operation. If everything looks good, shut down the engine and check for any signs of wear or damage on the surface of your new starter.
Conclusion
If you’re having problems with your 7.3 Powerstroke starter, don’t hesitate to bring it into an auto shop near you. With regular preventative maintenance and proper care, your 7.3 Powerstroke’s starter motor will keep on working like a charm for years to come!
