Dodge Repair: Hard Start/crank 2001 Dodge Ram 2500, dodge ram 2500, magnum v8

Question
I own a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 4wd with the 5.9l Magnum V8 with approx 80,000 Miles.
Recently the engine has been very hard starting . It starts out sounding like the battery is dead then it starts cranking faster and finally will start but after lifting off the accelerator the truck dies. I have to stay on accelerator for about 5minutes untill it will hold an idle and continue running.  Any input will be very much appreciated.

Thank you  

Answer
It sounds like a battery.  I would have it checked to make sure it's good.  Start with a free/cheap battery check.  This test should involve actually putting a load on the battery.  Using a multi-meter only is NOT going to do this and will give you misleading results.

Next, when the computer loses it's memory (as in a dead battery condition or after a battery disconnect) then it must relearn what normal is.  During this period a start and stall is common.  Low voltages make this relearn process even more difficult.  So that's why it's always important to start all electrical tests with a known good battery.

This is why I would be suspicious of the battery.  After that I would be curious of the idle air control motor.  This is responsible for allowing enough air to bypass the throttle plate to keep the car running at idle and hi-load-idle conditions.  This is another component whose position has to be learned by the computer so it's important to check the battery first before just throwing this part on.

Have the battery checked, terminals cleaned and reconnected and make sure there are no draws on the good battery.  I think you'll find your problem in this area.
Doug