Expert: Skip Bollinger - 11/4/2006

Question
Is there a quick fix to get it started, screwdriver to the solenoid, or anything? It has power but when you turn the key nothing happens. It did the same thing a couple of days ago, but then started fine.

Answer
Anthony,
  You haven't given me much to go on as far as what tests you have performed, if any. There are quite a few things that could cause the problem. Let me touch on the most popular. Please remember I'm a Parts Specialist, NOT a Tech so take your chances with me...
  If it did this same thing the other day and then started, it sounds like a dirty connection somewhere. Do this for me, go out to the truck and have someone watch the headlights. You may need to do this in a shaded area so they can see the lights. Turn them on and try to start the truck. See if the headlights go out or stay bright.  IF the lights go out, you may have a dirty connection at the battery. IF they stay bright but the truck still won't do anything, you may have a problem at the starter area. The starter grounds to the block via the mounting bolts. The truck is 12 years old. Maybe it has a bad rear main seal and is throwing oil all over the starter and it's mounting pad causing a poor ground.
  If all that checks out, try putting the key in the "run" position. With your foot FIRMLY PLACED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, move the shift selector to the "D" position and try to start the truck. MAKE SURE NOTING IS IN FRONT OF BEHIND THE TRUCK. IF it starts, the truck is going want to move like you were at a stop light. If it starts, it could be the electrical part of the ignition switch OR the Neutral Safety Switch.
  I still think it is just a dirty connection somewhere since it won't start one day and will the next.
  Again, please remember I'm a Parts Specialist, NOT a Tech but I'm trying to help. Thank you for your question..
Skip