After sitting for a few weeks the engine cranks but does not start?

2005 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
200,000 MILES • 5.3L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JDSTOCKTON40
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  • 4 POSTS
Truck sat for a few weeks while repairing A/C issues. After completing repairs, I go to start the truck to charge the A/C system. The truck will turn over but will not start. There are no lights coming on throughout the entire truck. Battery is fully charged. Almost seems to me light a ground issue or main fuse issue.
Sep 13, 2023 at 12:37 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Are any of the electrical components working other than the starter motor? Can you hear the fuel pump prime for a short time when the key is first turned on?

Often, a crank no start condition is the result of either a fuel problem or an ignition problem. The idea that the starter is engaging leads me to think the main power supplies are good, so I'm leaning toward one of the things I mentioned.

Let me know.

Joe
Sep 13, 2023 at 2:10 PM
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JDSTOCKTON40
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Just hear relays clicking, can’t hear pump priming. Battery voltage drops to 4v from 13v when starter engages.
Sep 13, 2023 at 10:49 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like either the starter is drawing too much amperage or there is a short in the keyed electrical components related to the starter.

Where are you checking the voltage? Is it on the battery post or is it on the battery cable?

Let me know.

Joe
Sep 14, 2023 at 11:23 AM
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JDSTOCKTON40
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Checking on the post, just crazy how it does this out of nowhere. Truck was running great except the A/C compressor went out.
Sep 15, 2023 at 5:21 AM
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JDSTOCKTON40
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  • 4 POSTS
Guess I’ll check the battery fuses.
Sep 15, 2023 at 5:22 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

You may have a bad battery. Have you tried having it load-tested? There may be a faulty cell in the battery itself.

Let me know.

Joe
Sep 15, 2023 at 1:09 PM
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