Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) No start, crazy cruise

[SPoe]

This is on a 2000 3500 5-speed, all stock.

For over a year now it won't start. Can only hear the starter click. After being pull started when trying to use the cruise control it surges up and down about 10 mph either way from original set speed. But when it starts on it's own the cruise control works properly. We've tried new starter, new ignition switch and the same problem exists. Once we readjusted the clutch switch and it worked for about two weeks and then the same starter click happens. Any ideas on what it could possibly be would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Hammer]

Have you checked the relay for the starter in the PDC????

They are known to cause symptoms like your having.



As for the neutral safety switch... .

Many people bypass them in different ways. One of the easiest ways is to remove the switch from the hydraulics and run a long screw down in it to have the contacts make a connection then shrink wrap and tie strap it up under the dash. the one drawback to doing this is you will loose the use of the cruise control. I took mine and removed the switch from the end and wired the loop and just hung it back up under the dash. It sure is alot nicer to start when you do not need to depress the clutch all the time..... Andy

 

[SPoe]

I have switched out the windshield wiper relay with the starter really and the same problem exists.



This is on my boss's truck so I don't think he would appreciate losing his cruise control.



I'm just thinking out loud: maybe the neutral safety switch is going out and needs to be replaced but would it still let the starter click?

 

[Bob Cochran]

Before I jumper the neutral switch the starter would not even click!! I don't see how the neutral switch would make the cruise control erratic either.

 

[Sticks]

Is is a Vacuum controlled cruise or electronic?

 

[SPoe]

I'm pretty sure the cruise is electronic.

 

[Sticks]

If it is vacuum, you will have a module under the drivers side battery with 2 or 3 vacuum lines coming out of it (been a while since I have seen one).

The only thing that I could think of is either a faulty APPS, (though mine did not affect the cruise when it was going schitzo) or the other would be a faulty speed sensor, but to have all 3 go weird w/o throwing a code... Have you checked for codes?

Would pretty much need to have a scanner hooked up that can show sensor readings while on a drive.