Truck will not crank? Alternator warning light on? We diagnose and replace starters and alternators on heavy-duty diesel engines on-site in Austin, Hutto, Georgetown and Central Texas. Correct diagnosis first — no expensive guesswork.
Starting and charging system failures often give warning before a complete breakdown. Know what to watch for.
Single loud click when turning the key — starter solenoid engaging but motor not spinning
Grinding sound during cranking — worn starter drive gear
Engine cranks very slowly despite good battery condition
Intermittent no-start that seems random or weather-related
Battery warning light or voltmeter reading below 13.5V while running
Dim or flickering dash lights at low RPM
Burning smell from the front of the engine while running
A failed starter on a semi truck does not always present as a simple no-crank. High-resistance connections in the starting circuit, a failed solenoid or corroded cable can all mimic starter failure exactly. We test voltage drop across the full starting circuit before condemning the starter — a test that separates genuine motor failure from fixable connection issues.
Do Not Keep Cranking: Repeated cranking with a failing starter overheats the solenoid winding and can melt battery cables. If the engine does not start after several attempts, stop cranking and call us — we diagnose correctly the first time.
We carry rebuilt and new starter units for Cummins ISX15, X15, ISB6.7, Detroit DD13/DD15/DD16 and PACCAR MX-11/MX-13 engines. Installation is done on-site in most configurations without a lift.
A failing alternator drains your batteries while the engine runs — and the truck eventually dies in motion with a dead electrical system. We test alternator output voltage and amperage under real electrical load, not just at idle. Many alternators test adequately at idle but cannot sustain charging under air conditioning, lighting and accessories combined.
Rebuilt and new alternators for Delco-Remy 22SI, 24SI, 40SI and Leece-Neville units are carried for immediate on-site replacement. We also replace the alternator belt and check belt tensioner condition during every alternator service call.
Output voltage testing (should be 13.8–14.4V at operating RPM)
Amperage output test under full electrical load
Belt and tensioner inspection
Voltage regulator testing
Call or WhatsApp right now — a real mechanic answers 24/7. We dispatch immediately anywhere within 30 miles of Hutto, TX.