I am about to voyage from NC to KY, a good 600 miles and I want to ensure that my big baby makes it there safely. Any help on what I should check before I make the trip? The oil and filter was changed 300 miles ago and the tires are still basically new. The only issue I have as of now is its slow to crank, I'm not sure if it's the fuel injectors or the starter.. What fluids should be checked? I know this is a pretty boot question, but unfortunately I don't know lol

 

The slow crank could turn into no crank. First check battery terminals for corrosion/damage. Also ground wire and wires that contact starter.
If the wiring is all good the issue is usually one of two things.

1. Battery is old and cannot handle the load. (batteries should be 'load tested'. A bad battery could still read over 12 volts on a meter.

2. Starter is going out.

 

I replaced the battery a few weeks ago, the one that was in it when I bought it looked like it belonged in a go cart.. so I know that's good, and the connections and ground look fine. 2 weeks ago I cleaned the connections on the starter, and cleaned the starter off.. I really should have taken it to get tested but i was in a hurry.

 

Take it to one of your local parts stores that do free diagnostics(here one is Advance Auto). Tell them you want a code scan and systems check. You should even get a free print out.

 

I had a slow crank that lasted a few months. Then suddenly no crank. Replaced the starter with a remanufactured one. It fixed the problem and crank speed returned to normal.

 

No doubt the starter will cause slow cranking. I thought since he's doing a trip he may as well get it all checked out. Of course one of the things they'll check is the battery which being new doesn't mean it can't be bad.

 

Check your tranny fluid.
If you have never replaced the gear oil in rear axle, I suggest at least checking the level.
Check the serpentine belt for cracks.
Tire pressure and spare tire pressure.
Condition of coolant and hoses.
While you are poking around, use a flashlight and check motor mounts for cracks or splits in rubber.


To EZEarl, we often post at the same time, so I do not usually see what you post until later. This is why I may post similar info as you. But we seem to have good teamwork!

 

Do I have to remove the starter in order to get it checked or can they still attach the wires to it?

 

I'm not sure. EZEarl should know. I would guess that it needs to come out.

 

Superior minds think alike.


He won't have to remove anything for them to do the tests.

 

I don't like doing major work right before any trip. Do it when you get back. Oil change. Check. Tire pressure. Check. Grease. Check. Good to go. If you doubt the vehicle take another or rent.