Can't Get Engine to Turn Over

[DnStClr]

I think I'd crawl under the truck to see if the starter terminal came loose again. If it's still tight, I'd start thinking about what Vile said-ignition switch rack.

[Les_Paul]

Obviously waffle poisoning.

Check the actuation of the ignition rack and ignition switch.

How wouldI go about doing that?

[DnStClr]

If it needs replaced, I've never done it, (don't want to either!) but  I think the steering column has to come apart. It's a detailed job. Here's a link to Autozone to show you what the ingition rack and sector gear looks like .
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/accessories/Miscellaneous-Repair-Parts/Ignition-Switch-Rack-Kit/_/N-25t0
There should be a column rebuild in the technical section of this website.

[DnStClr]

Here's the steering column teardown
http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php/topic,12525.0.html

[pholliday1]

Not for nothing ,LES but do you own a digital multimeter ? If not borrow one and when you have these no start issues have someone help you get some voltage readings at the starter and solenoid then you can trouble shoot from there.

[VileZambonie]

Checking the actuation just means verifying you are getting a good mechanical actuation of the ignition switch. Don't go tearing down your steering column if it's not starting. Start with the basics.

Get a test light connected to ground and go the the S terminal on the the starter. See if it lights up while the key is in the crank position.

[DnStClr]

Whoop. There  I go- gettin ahead of myself. Sorry everybody.
By all means, Les, follow the advice of these guys and troubleshoot from the beginning.

[Les_Paul]

Took a trip to Autozone this afternoon and got some help from them up there. They tested the starter, battery, and alternator and they all came back good. Fortunately I had the issue while I was there and they "tested" the solenoid by laying a screwdriver over it while I turned the key to ignition. It didnt respond at all, so we put on a new one (without having to buy it first) and it started right up. Time will tell if that was the issue, but I'm encouraged again. I'll keep everyone posted. Thanks for the help guys!

[bake74]

     You mean he solenoid on the starter correct ?  Just to make sure.

[Les_Paul]

     You mean he solenoid on the starter correct ?  Just to make sure.

Actually, no. I had an extra solenoid under the hood on my passenger wheel well that used to be part of a wiring scheme for a switch that is no longer connected. So in essence, I replaced a solenoid that doesn't do anything. It was just luck that the truck fired right up. Not 30 minutes later it was giving me the same problem, but I finally had someone with me when it was happening, and we figured it out. He tapped on the starter while I turned the key to the ignition position, and the engine started turning. Turns out my starter had a dead spot. So whenever I landed on that dead spot, I needed a jump to provide enough strength to get past it.

Long story short, I now have a completely refurbished starter (and solenoid that was attached to the starter itself). I'm keeping my fingers crossed for continued success with this one