No Start When Near or Below 32F - New Starter?

[bcrooms]

My 97 K1500 will not start at all if the outside temp is near or below 32F.

 

Initially it seems my starter is weak, as the voltage meter is low when I turn the ignition switch.  I hear the fuel pump engage, lights & radio work just fine... but when the key turns, nothing happens.

 

Once the temps rise outdoors, it seems to crank without issue. 

 

I did add some antifreeze as it was low, but I don't think that was the issue.  The alternator (reman) & battery are fairly new (under 1 year on the truck)

 

So I'm thinking to replace the starter, should I go with a direct drive starter or the gear reduction starter?

 

-Brandon

[davester]

More likely to be battery and/or cables...

[riverbanks]

I think, ignition switch, cause I just did one,but can't rule out a bad cable, shrinkage when cold on both

[CamGTP]

When it does it again you should crawl under the truck and bonk the starter/solenoid with a hammer to see if it comes to life. That would be a easy way to see if that is the cause. Even jump the starter with a screw driver, see if that will spin in the cold.

[bcrooms]

Oddly enough, after filling the truck with anti-freeze I have not had any trouble with starting when the temps are at or below freezing in the mornings....I ordered a new starter but not sure if it is needed. I have not changed anything else or even checked the current starter (tap w/ hammer)

[slj2008]

Check Battery , Cables make sure there tight .