1988 Dodge W150 318. Started hard starting recently. When key is turned it barely turns over, turns slow and you think its going to start clicking telling you battery is dead but after 5 seconds it speeds up and fires up. I cleaned battery terminals so far. Also the d/c battery gauge on dash is stuck in the middle. Doesn't move. Don't know if this is related. I also tested alternator with meter and its putting out over 13 volts. So its ok. Any help is appreciated. Thank you.

 

I'd check the timing or the starter could be taking a dive.

 

Welcome.... What were the test numbers on the starter and the battery ?

 

It started raining before I could finish. I will finish readings tomorrow and reply with exact numbers

 

We are here to lend a helping hand...

 

Went to start truck to do tests. I could see battery while starting it. I noticed smoke coming from negative terminal while starting. Negative cable seamed tight cuz I couldn't tighten it down any further but wasn't tight enough. Went and bought new terminal and all is good. Easy cheap fix. I feel stupid even posting the problem now. Thanks for the help anyway.

 

Clean all the cable ends..... Clean all the cable surface's... Clean and make sure all the grounds are good and tight and clean.. And you might just be amazed hoe things start coming around... Even with the grounds for the lights and Body start having issues.... Chip chipping at it.. Glad you got it turning easier..

 

indeed! it got to the point i'd buy cable ends when i worked at autozone just to help customers out who came in with those suckers fried. they weren't much and it's suuuuuch an easy fix. i've gotten a LOT of people back on the road with ends i carry around.