I have a 1996 Blazer 4.3 4wd. I went out to start it and all I heard was a rapid chatter. The motor didn't turn over just that rapid fire metallic chatter while the key was in the start position. I've had this problem on another vehicle and it was a bad starter relay. Question: Does this Blazer have a relay for the starter? Does this symptom sound familiar to anyone? Thanks for any help you might offer.

-jh

 

Ive seen the same problem in differant vehicles. I replaced the starter contacts and the cylenoid. That fixed it right up. As far as i know there is a relay for the starter. The rebuild kit for a starter is pretty cheap as well as the relay.

 

The starter and relay is all one unit. Take it out and have it tested at our local autoparts store. Prices for a new one vary considerable based on year of the truck. Although I think they are all the same. Older truck starters are cheaper then the newer ones. Buy a lifetime warrenty unit and never worry about it agian. If it fails, return it for a new one.

To answer your question. Its either the starter or the battery. Take them both with you and get them both tested. If the battery is at fualt, install a new one and then drive back to the autoparts store and have them tst your alternator, charging system.