13 freightliner cascadia won't start

Always get the kick starter option when ordering or buying a truck.

 

Make sure that you are getting 12v to the signal wire on the starter. If you are, needs a starter.

 

I second this. Even if it isn't the problem in this case, I'd get it checked anyhow. Not long ago we had nearly the exact same problem with our '12 Cascadia, and it ended up being the clutch switch. After some research I discovered that there was a recall some time ago concerning that very same part. I've also been told that a faulty coolant level sensor can cause the same issues; the mechanic mentioned that to me in passing.

 

I'm having a similar issue with my '12 Cascadia as well. Back in January when I was out in the Sierra Nevada's on Rte 395 I pulled off at a rest area for a 30.. got back in wouldn't start for about 30 minutes, and completely out in the middle of nowhere. Finallly it just cranked up and off I went.

Didn't have another issue with it until a couple weeks ago it did that again only this time at a shipper. Wouldn't turn over for about 30 minutes. Took it into FL they couldn't find a thing wrong with it.

I had them put a new clutch switch in anyway but it's still doing this occasionally. It never has a problem starting up 1st thing in the morning, but after I've been running for a while or especially in altitude after pulling. A grade is when it seems to.be an issue. It's as if I'm just turning the key without pushing in the clutch. Voltage is fine.

Only thing FL thought it *might* be was the clutch. Was tempted to just have the whole clutch replaced but it's never had a problem shifting.

 

I think it's a side effect of having the starter located near the exhaust. Too much heat. The starter has a thermal over temp cutout breaker to protect the starter if you crank it way too long. They get weak after a while from all the heat exposure and need to be replaced. Unfortunately they are located inside the starter. Seeing as you have to remove the starter to get at it, you might as well just put a whole new starter in.

 

Make sure you will put new starter (not a reman). My starter was replaced (was making click but no start)by warranty had only 100000miles. Then after a month another starter failed(shop put reman). I went to FL dealer and asked they said too many defective starters come back. So I pay arround $100 extra for new starter. Now no problems so far.