what is wrong

[So MA!]

I could use some help. Something wrong with my girl. I have a 2000 Sono 4.3l v6. I do not drive as much since my job is walking distance, I drive it around about 2-3 times a week. I went out yesterday(very rainy outside) to do a couple of things and all seemed to run ok. I did fill her up but always at the same place. Although I did put in bronze instead of silver (shell). I went to take her out today and it will not start. All it does is make a clicking noise when I turn the key. Lights, music all come on so I do not think that it is the battery. I was thinking that it may be the starter. If so is that something a beginner could take care of or better off with a garage? Any and all help would be great.

[Bone Crusher]

May still be the battery even though the the stereo lights come on. truck battery uses a lot of cranking amps/power to start a car. I would go have the battery tested or try and jump it first. If it starts with a jump then its the battery. I would start there and then go to the starter if need be.

[nomaboy]

X2

[Mikz86TA]

Battery X3

[T Man]

if its clicking it means the amperage isnt there to crank the starter

x4

[So MA!]

Thanks guys! two more things. Any suggestions on what type of battery to get? Only thing to really think about are the cold winters here. Anything special to do when changing the battery?

[Mikz86TA]

Negative off 1st and Negative on Last. I prefer the RedTop Optima but they are expensive compared to most batteries. The Interstates are good and the new DieHard model...cant remember the name

[TreasonAgainstCaesar]

When I did mine, I got a sears die hard for Trucks/SUVs. It had a little higher cold cranking amp rating, and the housing is supposed to be a little more durable than a standard battery. The price was good and so was the warranty. And b/c it's from sears, there will always be a store around to get warranty service if needed.

Of course I would've really liked a to get a yellow top Optima, but the one I got was the best compromise of price and rating.

When changing the battery, disconnect the Negative terminal first. If you have a delco theft loc radio, you need to disable thator something. When installing the new battery, connect the Positive cable first, then the negative. Make sure that the cable ends are clean before you connect them. Also, make sure you don't over tighten the clamp bolt or you can crack the battery housing.

[T Man]

interstate batt. from a fist gen. I believe I put an MT 78 in my 03..700cca

[nomaboy]

check the alternator to make sure it is putting out charging voltage as that could be the reason the battery isn't charged. it prolly is the battery but best to double check before you buy it.