went to Phoenix Friday (118 F ) picked up some clear pvc pipe and about 2 tons of roofing, stop for lunch than come home. 240 miles total. about an hour later I move my truck to the house I am remodeling and smell hot melting plastic smell, shut truck off chat with neighbor for about 20 minutes. try to start truck and acts like dead batteries, get excursion and jump truck still no start, starter is smoking!
Saturday order starter, disconnect battery cables, looking over engine see 2 small ball bearings on rh valve cover! look at back of alternator no rear bearing! remove belt, alternator welded itself solid.
throw on new starter ( run the 6.0L high torque starter) new alternator and new belt and all is well

 

WOW! I am grateful that my truck has not had issues like this. On the other hand, I am unable to drive my truck as much as the majority of members here. On the bright side, if I ever have a situation as this, I will have an idea of what to check first. Thank you for posting.

 

both the 02 diesel and 04 5.4 gas did that.
started rite up no problems.
1/2 hour later with the diesel. and 10 minutes later with the 5.4 truck nothing when key turned.

 

Try putting the key in the switch, then turn it dummazz

 

blah blah blah. i may be dumb, but i ain't stupid like you is.