I have a 2003 v6 Taurus. It has gotten where it doesn't want to start. !st off, I bought a new 700 CCA battery today and installed it. THE cables and terminals are clean. Here's my problem; when I go to start, the motor might start or not. Some times I hear a click and it won't start. Some time nothing happens and after some time it might start or not. I tend to think it might be ignition switch or either the starter. Has any one had this happen and if so, what was the problem? The car has 140,000 miles and has the original starter and switch. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

First,,,,,,,,,,,, if all those miles were all high way miles, maybe, But if not, yes the starter motor is suspect..
What should be done is to make sure power is getting to the solenoid on the starter when the key is turned to the start position. This will verify if starter is getting signal to start
If it is present, then starter is probably on it's way out.. If signal does not get to the solenoid, then the path from the ign switch through the Manual lever position switch (neutral safety sw ) on to the starter solenoid needs to be checked. Not difficult, but can sometimes be a little difficult to get to.
Starter is not too difficult to change, but the miles and original starter, well , chances are pretty good it is the starter motor.

 

If you can easily get to it, hang a volt meter on the small wire on the starter which will be the solenoid connection,have a helper attempt to start the engine( make sure you are in a safe position) if you are getting around 12.6v, replace the whole starter which will include the solenoid. The clicking you describe tells me that the solenoid is getting energy from the ignition switch. You can also, "gently" tap the starter with a small hammer and see if that brings the starter back to life.Either case, you likely need a starter.

 

Thanks to Raski and Hanky. You nailed it . It was the starter. It seems that when the oil was changed over the years, oil would run down on the starter. When it was taken apart to rebuild, it was very oily. When I picked the bad part up, I had to get a shop rag to clean my hands. Thanks again so much for your help.