startup issues on COLD mornings

[pingber]

Now that the temps are cold (8 this morning), I have a weird noise thats occurring on startup only ... almost like an electrical sparking, arcing or something, not the starter solenoid, starter engages fully and well, but while starter is turning, another noise, VERY rapid clicking, almost a quick ratcheting sound for about 5 seconds. ANy ideas?

[Whelan]

Like when you first turn the key you get the racheting sound. Could be your battery struggling to get the power to start. Just an idea.

[pingber]

nope, not the battery ...just replaced that ...I think its coming from this thing ...(photo attached) .. any ideas what this thing is and or does? I also noticed that even after the ratcheting sound, this thing cliks/clacks until the car is thoroughly warmed up, and the heater fan seems to surge also.

Attached files