S-10 starting problems

I have an s-10 2003 truck. recently the service engine light came on. i took my truck out this morning, no problem starting. the service engine light was on. when i got back in it maybe 4 hours later it had trouble starting meaning, it would start, then maybe have trouble keeping running. then i tried it and nothing, then i waited and tried it and it started but was running rough like it was going to die. i drove it home, about 40 miles, its been sitting in the garage all day, now 5 or 6 hours later i tried to start it and it started immediately, i turned it off, then it did nothing when i tried it again, then i waited a few seconds, then it started but ran rough. i turned it off, looked for loose wires on the battery and felt down by the starter, nothing loose. went inside for a bit. then tried it after 10 minutes and it started right back up, no problem. so, after all that i am wondering what the problem might be. oh, i forgot to say that when i started it this morning, the service engine soon light went off. and also, when each time i had trouble starting it, the clock on the radio would go to 1200 like i lost power for a second or something. any input on this matter would be deeply appreciated. its a chevy s-10 v6 , thanks

Sounds like a possible power control module failing. Have the codes checked this would be very helpful (even though the lights off the codes will still be stored in memory). Otherwise your just guessing and you do not want to guess on a PCM they can be expensive (It could also be called a body control module or BCM-not sure on this vehicle)

How old is the battery?

The clock going to 12:00 is the clue. The keep alive memories are losing power. Take the battery cable ends apart, both ends of both cables. Clean them with a wire brush or a file until all corrosion is gone and the terminals shine. Put them back on, tighten them up and you should be good to go.

Battery cables could be part of the issue but it's not causing the engine to run rough....Doubtful it is causing the service engine light either. If anything if there was a power issue it may set the airbag light. I agree that my diagnosis is purely a guess, but if the battery cables are causing a issue then he has another concern the needs to be addressed.
Check the cables that is easy but be forwarned the computer did code up you will loose the code and will need to wait untill it recodes again. If the cables do not look to corroded go get it scanned to start. Go to to your local parts store if you want it done free. See what the code is.....Up to you

it was the battery cables that were dirty. i unhooked them from the battery and the junk come dropping out. i appreciate the help. automotive forums rocks.

Cool, I am glad for you that I was wrong. I hope you have no more issues!!! :cheers: