2006 5.4 Struggling to turn on sometimes.

[BlackoutExpy]

So sometimes I turn over the truck and it cranks but wont turn on. Sometimes you hear a grinding noise. Dont know if its me or not but I feel like it happens more when hot outside. Most times it turns on no issue. But just recently it would crank turn on but like weak and then turned off. I do hear like a grinding noise sometimes. When this does happens it feels like it dies but will turn on next try.

 

[Hamfisted]

Well, grinding is bad. Where's the noise coming from ?

 

[BlackoutExpy]

Well, grinding is bad. Where's the noise coming from ?

I want to say its the starter. But idk. Its not all the time. Its the sound like if you tirn the key too much when turning on. Thats best way to describe it

 

[whtbronco]

I wonder if the bendix on the starter motor not retracting properly or moving too far.

 

[BlackoutExpy]

I wonder if the bendix on the starter motor not retracting properly or moving too far.

How would I check that ?
Possible that it will probably need a starter replacement soon ?

 

[kep5niner]

In the grand scheme of things, starters are cheap and relatively easy to swap out. That would be my first step.

 

[whtbronco]

If you remove the starter and the bendix is grinding on the flywheel you'll see the teeth worn down some. I'd probably go ahead and have a spare starter on-hand just in case.