Just purchased a 1992 F-150. Started just fine when I test drove it, started fine the next day when I went and picked it up. Tried to start it the day after I brought it home and it won't start. When I turn the key it makes a loud clicking noise. Doesn't even try to turn over. Guy I bought it from claimed battery is new...looks new. Tried using a wire to go around the solenoid, still get the clicking. While trying the wire and solenoid thing, the battery was hissing a bit on the negative side and was getting a small wisp of smoke...bad battery? Starter? Help! By the way, I am in no way a mechanic, but can follow instructions! Thanks

ORIGINAL: dankoos

Just purchased a 1992 F-150. Started just fine when I test drove it, started fine the next day when I went and picked it up. Tried to start it the day after I brought it home and it won't start. When I turn the key it makes a loud clicking noise. Doesn't even try to turn over. Guy I bought it from claimed battery is new...looks new. Tried using a wire to go around the solenoid, still get the clicking. While trying the wire and solenoid thing, the battery was hissing a bit on the negative side and was getting a small wisp of smoke...bad battery? Starter? Help! By the way, I am in no way a mechanic, but can follow instructions! Thanks


It truely sounds like a solenoid problem but that smoke from the battery tells me you have a bad connection or a bad cable. It's hard to tell without seeing it though