I jumped in my truck and turned the key and all I got was a grinding noise like the starter was getting voltage but not turning over. It has been pouring lately but its dry under the hood.

How do I know if my starter is the problem or something else? And, is it reasonably easy to replace it myself or is this something that requires a mechanic. I've never replaced one before.

Thanks,
David

 

try crossing the solenoid and see if the starter spins, if so you have a bad solenoid, if not then you could have a bad starter or connection to the starter. The starter isnt hard to replace-2 bolts and 1 wire. Please remember to disconnect the battery before removing starter cable, safety first.

 

Pull the starter off and bring it to an auto parts store. They will bench test it for free.