Flightguy

I've searched around, and think I know the answer. I just want to verify it.

I finished replacing the water pump, put it back together, and had trouble starting the engine. I would turn the key to start, and I would get a clicking sound, but ut wouldn't turn over the engine. I tried a couple of times, and it starts.

The next day, works fine.

I wake up this morning, and it works fine. I get in after work, and it is doing the same. I try to start it again, and the electrical goes out on the dash, no clicking. Couple more times, same outcomes. Finally, it starts.

Reading over the threads, it seems like the starter contacts. I just want to get additional input from the knowledge gurus on here. Thanks in advance.

rworegon

Yes, sounds like starter contacts are shot.

aviator

Could be the contacts or maybe the bendix in the starter is shot... sounds like a problem I had ... the starter motor has an electro magnet in it [the bendix] that pulls the cog out and engages the flywheel when you turn the key to IGN, if it gets stuck out the starter motor act like a generator and when you go to start it again it will just click.

repeated tries sometimes causes the bendix to drop back in and then you can start it.
if it happens again and you have a manual put the truck in gear and rock it (with muscle power) if you hear a click that's the bendix dropping back in it should start normally.
if you have an auto you're outta luck you'll have to 'wing it' changing the starter is relatively easy but be careful it weighs a ton.