I thought that the problem with the truck not starting after it was warm was due to the reverse light switch being stuck as my back up lights were on constantly. Got that fixed and still no start.
I got what the Dodge dealer called an ignition switch but I have no idea where it goes, it just has a plug on it.
What are the chances it is the switch in the steering column?
I can see the amp meter jump a bit when I bump the key but otherwise nothing.

Any ideas where to look next?

 

Does it crank?

 

No.

 

jump the two wires that run parallel to your large Red cable. There is a rubber two pin connector that you disconnect to do this. This will engage the starter solenoid. Run 12V to the fuel solenoid. If it starts, go backwards from there.

 

My guess is the starter solenoid since it won't crank hot.

 

Jumping the 2 wires worked once.

 

I'm thinking so too.
I will track down a solenoid tomorrow and see if that fixes it. I also pulled and cleaned the battery posts and connections - maybe that will help even though they were not corroded at all. Did a battery test at work last week when this first started happening and it checked out OK.

 

Looks like you need some Larry B's Contacts.

http://www.fostertruck.com/dodge/

 

Well now it is really dead.
Jumping the wires does nothing, there is not even a click from under the hood anymore.


sigh - out comes the starter tonight.

 

I hate electrical gremlins. I cannot pull the starter as I do not own 12 point sockets that small, my short fingered hands do not fit into the space between the frame and the starter, and I have gravel stuck into the back of my head from rolling around out in the drive.

I guess it's nothing that another 100 bucks in tools won't fix.

 

Nothing beats buying tools you'll only use for one job...

My toolbox has a dedicated drawer for 'truck specific' tools.

 

In a pinch you can tap around on the starter with a hammers HANDLE or something else that's not metal and can crack the casing. I had to do this awhile when my brushes were worn. Should work also for solenoid issues.

If there is a starter/altenator place around, they should be able to hook you up. I got my brushes for $8 from my guy.