2001 clicking noise and no start

[rdez]

Tried to start today and got only a clicking noise. I,m gonna check the cables and connections 1st, but when this happened a couple of weeks ago I had battery checked at AZ and it was ok. The weird thing is that everything was dead, no lights, radio, nothing, just the clicking noise. after a few more tries I put the shift (automatic) into neutral and when i cranked I got a little flicker from the instrument panel then it cranked. this happened to my kid a couple of weeks ago, and I just blamed him for probably leaving something on(oops) thanks for any enlightenment

 

[bigjohn]

starter

 

[TAZFORDS]

Check and see if your cable connection to the posts are corroded, I have had that happen several times. If so clean them well, go to wally world or parts store buy the battery post felt rings and some terminal spray, add the rings tighten back up and spray them well with the terminal spray. Not sure on the spray name at the moment, but I do know it is like a red dye color.

 

[bdmaash]

It maybe the connector/wiring on the ignition switch. Take off the steering column shroud and check the connections to the switch.

edit: Oh, and since the battery checked out fine, then truck mysteriously worked again, check the grounds from battery to the frame and motor.