Sometimes when I turn the key, there's split second of silence then a SQUEAK, then it turns over. Other times it sounds like it isn't going to turn over at all. It hesitates, then one crank, two, and finally starts up. Most of the time it starts right up; what the heck is going on?

You may want to check for a Squirrell or Rat or even a Mouse laying under the Hood somewhere .

an issue with the bendix of the starter.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

Your name suggests you're a funny guy as well as an expert in crank yanking.

While you may have a good and valid point I also have had these wascals under the hood of Mein Autos and a Stray Cat once it made a diff noise though ....

Bad electrical connection, most likely at the battery terminals, would be the best first guess. Detach and clean battery terminal connections, negative first. After cleaning, re-attach positive first.

Steve

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'91 MB 190E 2.3
'08 RAV4 Ltd 3.5
'83 Lazy Daze m'home 5.7

may as well check your grounds too.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.