Check your battery voltage first while the van is running.  It should be
around 13.5 volts.  If not then test your battery with the van not
running.  It should be around 12.5 volts.  If one of these is low that
should show you if you have a problem with either a bad battery or a bad
alternator (or both).  If these test fine then you should check your
connections on your starter but you probably have a starter that is
going bad.  The solenoid gets sticky and causes this problem.  I have
found that a good rebuilt one is the only real fix for this problem.  I
have the bosch rebuilds (SR401x) in stock for $135 plus a refundable
core charge.  Let me know if I can help you further.

Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

Matthew Berlett wrote:
> I turn the key and the engine doesn't turn over but the lights turn on. It
> makes no noise. If I try starting it repeatedly it does start eventually. I
> am thinking dirty connections somewhere but I don't know where to start.
>
>