Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Hard time starting

[MOlson]

I have a 99 2500. This past week, I've had to jump start my truck several times. I had the batteries tested. One had a bad cell so we replaced it. The next morning I had to jump start it again. When I started it today, it started slow, but it did start. What else should I be looking at?

 

[Missouri Mule]

One when you replace one battery you really need to replace both( with the average voltage reading between the batteries the EVR/alternator will under charge and soon the old battery will die) .



An electrical component could be drawing juice.



General rule, if it is hard to start in the morning it is the batteries, if it is hard to start after it has been driven it is the starter.

 

[JFringer]

my truck was turning over slow and taking long crank cycles to start after a vp swap. replaced the bateries and the starter so it turned over alot faster and the rest fixed itself. so you might look at the starter. just a shot in the dark.

 

[rkressg]

If the starter is old, get a set of contacts and a plunger from Larry B's.
LarryB's StarterContacts.com

I think that Geno's sells the contact and plunger as a set. Way cheaper than a rebuilt starter.

For the batteries, it is best to replace both batteries at the same time (both should be the same size/model battery). Ensure that the terminals are clean from corrosion, and that the positive to the starter, along with the ground from the Engine block are good and clean.

If that does not fix it, then you could have an electrical component pulling current with the ignition off.