Recently I went to start my truck after it had been sitting for about a half hour and the truck attempted to start briefly, but then went dead. My immediate thoughts were the battery is dead, but after removing the key and pulling the hood handle, there started a "rat-a-tat-a-tat, click -rat-a-tat-a-tat, click -rat-a-tat-a-tat, click" sound from the fuse and relay box located just below the turn signal right above the brake pedal. So I closed the hood and started the truck. It started easily. Any ideas on what caused this? Is this the beginning of bigger problem? I don't want to get stranded if this persist.

Any input would be appreciated.

 

Mine did the exact same thing, but the battery WAS dead. It had just enough power to run the lights and radio, and for the alarm to go off when I attempted to start it. One thing I have heard about on these trucks is the battery cable to the starter corroding in two and breaking off. Maybe the closure of the hood got it to connect again for the time being? One thing to check that only requires crawling under the truck for a minute or two? Good luck!,,,,98

 

Thanks. The truck is a 97 and has the original battery. It has never been replaced. I haven't cleaned the post in a while and will take care of it. I will also replace the cables, in this heat it may have finally cracked or something.

 

That's one thing I didn't think of? The age of the battery, and add heat, it's just begging to die on you. While the truck is starting for you, I'd take it in an get it tested under load. This could save you a long walk if it's on it's last legs. Mine's a 98, and it died quick and with no warning whatsoever. It started three times one morning, on the fourth, it did the exact same thing yours did except for starting. I was glad I had AAA that morning,,,,98