My engine will "cut out" while trying to take off in 1st gear (manual
tran). It will essentially cut just about completely out, then quickly
pick back up... this results in a "bucking" action that throws me
forward and back. It does it less intensely in 2nd gear, then
virtually disappears in 3rd, 4th, and 5th. It appears to do it worse
on warmer days or after I have driven it for a while. I am not sure
where to even start with a self diagnosis, but would like to check any
thing I can before taking it into a shop. I am somewhat mechanically
adept... I have replaced starters, alternators, master cylinder, water
pumps... although not without a fair amount of frustration.

The truck did sit up unused for about a year, then again for about 6
months after the starter failed and the one I put in was faulty. I
finally had a shop put another starter in (what a pain to get to on
this engine!!) and it ran with no symptoms for 3 or 4 days (after the
6 month non-use period). Now the "cutting-out" activity is starting
again. My temperature gauge just started fluctuating drastically
between mid-way and hot. I suspect this is the thermostat, and wonder
if the 2 things are related. Any insight or suggestions would be
greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Rich