Usually on the first start of the day the solenoid engages and the starter engages the flywheel but will not crank the engine. I turn the key off and try again and the truck starts normally. Sometimes I have to do this several times before the trucks cranks and starts. At first I thought I might have a battery going bad so I checked the battery voltage, 12.8 volts, then I put a load tester on it and it checks good. I also checked the alternator output and it was 14v. This got me to thinking about a possible starter issue. The truck has 150k on the odometer so a worn starter is a definite possibility. Badly worn bearings/bushings in the starter might well give me these symptoms. Comments!

 

reomack,

I have a similar problem with my 2001 Ram 1500 with the 5.9 Automatic. If I turn the key to the "Start" position too fast or too hard. You might try like I have to do for a good start. Turn the key to the "Run" position, then GENTLY turn to the "Start" position. If I do it that way, I get a good start every time.

Dave

 

Thanks, I'll try that.

 

Sounds like an issue with the linkage from the key cylinder to the electrical ignition switch, or a bad electrical ignition switch

 

OK, it was not a switch problem at all. Turns out that the starter was dying. New starter and all is well. Thanks for the input.