So the quick story goes (sort of).....

I'm feeling guilty because I can not make it to the breakfast or other events tomorrow....so...decided to take it her out this afternoon.

End up in the target parking lot and she decides to turn for a second then quits and get the fun click...click that we have all had before.

Try to jump and nothing. Turns out there is a harbor freight right here and auto store within a block. Learned the lesson that I knew...always have tools (reminder to those that don't drive theirs that much)! Pick up some sockets and check things out. Turns out the starter cable and the exhaust became friends. Ok...at least something is physically not right :)! Get starter out and head to auto store. I have a 351W with an unidentified year (although have replaced successfully a few years ago). Test the starter...it passes, but not well...terrible sounds. Grab new wire and starter and the starter was not the right one...clocked wrong. The salesman and I went through every starter they have and nothing. Put old starter in and nothing. It's now getting dark, so call the tow truck (thank god for 15 mile free towing through insurance). Not sure if it is the starter or solenoid, but will figure out what the cable destroyed. With that being said, I am open to any and all suggestion! It seemed to hesitate every now and again and that is why I have a feeling the cable was killing me. Basically a hesitation and then go. Very intermittent which is why I think it was the electrical gremlin, but I am not so smart with the electrical.

Great part was after coming out of target with the gator-aid and pringles , guy in lifted suburban pulls in right next to me. I chatted with him and told him I had a tow truck coming and he told me he parked there to admire the bronco and was just getting ready to check it out. Tow truck showed up and the guy was awesome. If you are in Ft. Collins...Scott's towing and auto recovery and the guys name was Rob. Actually helped me push it to where I needed it. When she turns, she goes, so I think the battery is good, but I definitely don't know, so will check tomorrow.

Now for the lessons I learned...

Great way to get out of dinner with your parents in laws when your wife is out of town (actually really like my parents in laws and felt quite bad)!

Starters get heavy and awkward after trying to cross the parking lot and major streets going to the auto store multiple times. I might be getting old.

Still some great people out there to help out!

And for those that I know and for those that I would really like to meet:....We are moving down your way in the coming months, so I am hoping to be back soon....with a running bronco....and someday 2!

And for the grand finale....wearing my CCB sweatshirt today!

Can't wait to get back into the club !

Matt

You could use the one for the Bronco 302. That should be pretty standard at least it is for mine, same goes water pump. Found this informative video that might help you in troubleshooting: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGGTaOQkkAk

Matt, good to hear from you, sorry about the reasoning though. I'd inspect or run new wires for anything related to the starting system, including the ground wires, I bet you have something loose or corroded. I'd also pull out a volt meter and confirm your draw at the batt and starter are good. At least you have the bump start option, I carry a spare starter just in case, when I'm on the trail.

Bummer man. I was gonna call you to see if you wanted to car pool. Hope you get it sorted soon. Where are moving to?

Thanks for the help guys. I'll keep you posted as I get time to dig into it.

Shawn...we will either be in Boulder or somewhere between Boulder and Denver. I am going to try and head down next weekend, but if I can't make it....have fun with the suspension installation.

Matt

Got her back up and running. 1 starter, 1 cable, and 1 solenoid later. I should have tried things in a more logical order to determine the actual cause, but all were bad so good thing I replaced all. Fairly certain it was the solenoid in the end. Most likely due to the cable. Figures...the easiest, but looked ok. Learning lessons are always welcome, and she keeps teaching me :)!

None the less...two days of many....many one time starts in the driveway has brought some confidence back :)!

Thanks for all the help!

Matt

Great job Matt! Glad to hear you found your problems.

Sweet, now get your self to the next event.

I agree Jeff....last event was last weekend when Kirk was too tall! Ask him how that went :)!

On that note..you aren't kidding! Hope to be there soon!

Matt