Hi folks,

This is probably an easy problem to solve, but not when its yours and
it's -8 C outside.

2000 Ranger XLT, automatic, 92K miles, V6.

I went out tonight to start the truck (which just worked 2 hours before).

Turned the key, the engine tried to turn over, then the cranks gor slower. Took the key out, tried again. Cranked slower and slower till it stopped.

Had my wife try and give me a jump, it didn't work.

So whats the deal, dead battery? To my knowledge, still factory battery. Something else to look for?

Thanks for all your time in helping me out.

Best,

Bob

 

Five year old battery sounds like a problm to me. You can take it by an auto parts store to have the charging system checked if you can get it started. I would try the jump again making sure you have good connections. You also can unhook a cable on the truck battery and put the jumper on and run it for a few mins to charge the truck battery.
Dave

 

It does sound like it's time for a new battery. If your original battery is really dead or just about dead a jump start won't always work either. It just drains off the juice from where you want it to go. You could try charging it but it may not take a charge or it will give you a false reading of a good charge till you go to use it. I would try a new battery and it should send you on your way. It's unusual to have a battery last any more than about 5 years. Maybe even less in more constantly harsh climates.

 

Thanks guys,

Was indeed a bad battery, i changed it out and it started right up, and has every time since.

A bonus was finding my dash lights are a little brighter now....who knew thats why they were slightly dimmed, I thought I saw dash light replacement in my summer's future.....

Bob