Hello Guys and Gals, been searching the forum for a solution similar to what I am having with my Ram but have found nothing so heres my question:
I have a 2 dr 1999 Ram 1500 ST V6 with Auto Transmission and am having problems cranking it up. When I turn the key to crank, all the needles in the dash jump but the motor does not turn over. I can jiggle the key while turning the key on and off and sometimes it will bump the motor and other times it will turn over and crank. Once it is running and I turn on the A/C, the fan motor doesn't come on unless I jiggle the key. Had a new key made at a dealer but same results. I have adjusted the Shift linkage on the transmission/shifting rod, replaced the nuetural backup switch, replaced the starter relay and still have the same problem. The Truck sat for almost two years at my fathers house before me getting it back. Put a new battery in it so now I am lost on what to look for. Any help appreciated.

 

So everything works when you jiggle the key?

Possibly a bad ignition switch.

 

Thanks, pulled the switch out and tested continuity, pins 1 to 7 open when in start position. So there goes $150.00!

 

A $150 ?

 

Thats what I was told when I called the local dodge dealer in daphne al. Know of a cheaper OEM dealer?

 

wholesalemopar.com or mopar-wholesale.com They are similar on prices. Better than the dealership. I get my trim pieces from them. Make sure you call them before ordering it makes it easier.

 

This is one of those parts I don't think OEM is really needed. You can get a Standard Motor Products brand for 50 or 60 bucks, and call it a day.

 

The switch can test good when you take it out for a bench test, because the short is deceiving. Like Zman said, less money can be spent for good new stuff then you will know with certainty if that is the issue.

 

+1 on that. OEM parts are important for some things, but this is not one of them.

 

Thanks searched for the Standard Motor Products and from their website found a BWD ignition from Advanced Auto for $60. Less than half of the OEM Dealer. Got it put in and Starts right up, all acc work without messing with key! Thanks Dodge Folks, for the help.