This has happened to me a few times now and its gettin old. I try to turn the truck over and i get nothing sometimes i get lights on the dash other times nothing. it makes no clicks like it is tryin to crank absolutely nothing. i have my dad or younger brother jump me and it fires first try but them wont stay running it just dies i have to keep my foot on the gas to keep rpms up or it dies. it take like 3 or 4 tries to start it and actually get goin on the road. i usually have to keep the rpm's up for about a mile then it will runs fine or weeks then it will just die again. i replaced the map sensor a few weeks ago so i dont think thats a problem.

Sorry for being so wordy i just really want to be thorough so i can get this figured out.

 

some questions: might help give direction...
1- check engine OR security light* on ?
2- remote start or after markei alarm?

some easy things to get started
the idle problem sounds like powers interupted to PCM and a idle relearn.

battery is how old?- ck charging system-free checks at some parts stores

Alos aproblem with ign switch.... I suspect question 1 or 2 may help.


*if applicable

 

check battery terminals for corrosion

 

No check engine lights or anything i have a code reader so when one pops up i figure it out and fix it myself i wish it would just give me a check light so i knew what the heck was goin on.
ummmm. no remote start or alarm either.

battery isnt brand new but a few weeks ago when this happened i got it tested and it was fine

its dark out now but ill get the truck in the garage tomorrow and check the PCM

the terminals are fine as well no corrosion

 

Well, if you get absolutely nothing when cranking, and if the battery is good, that would indicate a problem with the battery cables.
Could be a bad ground, could be a loose/corroded connection to the starter on the + cable.
Have you done a spark test ?
Since it starts with a jump, that would indicate maybe the battery is not as good as you think.
Could have been fine when it was checked, perhaps it does not hold a charge well.
A battery can seem fine when checked, but if it drains at the drop of a hat, its time for a new one.

Could also have multiple problems, I'd put a Diehard in it, change the fuel filter, check the battery leads and connections, and check all spark plugs & wires for any problems, and replace as necessary.
If you don't have the $$ to burn for a new Diehard, at least get one of those cheap battery/alternator testers from murrays, they give you a good ballpark idea of the state of your battery and charging system.

 

Well this morning i went to try to start it to get it to the garage. Nothing when i turned the key hooked up the jumper cables fired right up. I got it to the garage and shut it down went to restart it and nothing my dad noticed some noise when i was tryin to start it and tracked it down. Turns out an inline engine relay wasnt getting a good connection i tightened down and it fired 5 times in a row.

Thanks guy for the suggestions i really appreciate it