cranking really slow when started

[itchyfishnv]

So I head out the TB head to the auto parts store to get some parts for my s10, and the truck started fine, get out get in my car and the thing starts really slow, it was cranking just cranking really slow and then started up. I've tested the battery and its fine, I've also tested for any voltage drop while the alarm is armed/disarmed and there is none. So I dont believe its a battery problem. Do you think it could be the starter? Anyone know how hard it is to replace? I checked the service manual and its very vague. Any ideas guys?

here is a sound clip i took with my phone, notice how weak the first crank sounds
Click Here (http://webpages.charter.net/itchyfishnv/0422071649.wav)

[Blazernut]

I would also check the electrical connections and the grounds. If you can get someone to check your draw from the starter that may tell a lot also. If that starter is drawing way too much amperage then you will have a good idea what you are up against.

[PROSPHOTO]

I would also check the electrical connections and the grounds.

:iagree: It's very possible you are experiencing a ground problem :undecided Check the battery terminals and threads/make sure they are secured and corrosion free.
What did you do to test the battery? Load tester?

[itchyfishnv]

there is no corrosion at all, the grounds going to the battery seem fine, i will replace them anyways but it just seems weird that it just started doing it after being parked for 5 mins. im currently running a optima yellow top. ive done load testing and everything seems to be in spec according to the gm service manual so i dunno what the problem is

[itchyfishnv]

I actually just found this from the GM service manual, not the news I wanted to hear...


Engine Cranks Slowly

Perform the following checks:

* Battery -- Battery Inspection/Test. Refer to Battery Inspection/Test in this section.
* Wiring -- Inspect the wiring for damage. Inspect all connections to the starter motor, solenoid, battery, and all ground connections. Refer to Circuit Testing , Wiring Repairs , Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
* Engine -- Make sure the engine is not seized.

If the battery, the wiring and the engine are functioning properly and the engine continues to crank slowly, replace the starter motor. Refer to Starter Motor Replacement in this section.

[Gearhead2012]

If it's an intermittant problem, it's probably the starter - which does't seem too hard to change on these...assuming you have the I6 not the V8. I work at Advance Auto, and we can test your starter, on the car if you bring it up there...or, if you do take it off...they can also test it on a bench they have in the back. It either sounds like a bad solenoid, or a bad connection to me...trace the wire to the starter solenoid. On second thought..if it's just starting slowly, but everytime...it's just a weak starter, or weak battery. In which case, you'd replace the starter, or battery. Good luck with it, and try to get it tested if you can...I think Autozone might do the same tests, if there's no Advance's around you.

[anglarry04]

there is a possiblity that the starter may be drawing down the system, however, the way to check it is to pull the starter off. I never pulled one off personally, but it looks a lil tougher than a reg starter since its higher up than a conventioanl starter. You definitly need to lay on your back to get it out. If you have good mechanic incline, you should be able to get it. I cant remember for sure if you can test it on-vehicle. Try asking a reputable autozone or autoparts store that has the machine. I beleive it can be done.