2008 Ford Ranger 3.0 v6 ~120k miles.

When I go to start it sometimes it takes a good 2 seconds but it seems the battery is strong because it's still trying to start although the battery is about 5.5 years old and I left the lights on only for a couple minutes a couple months ago and needed to jump start it. I replaced the alternator about 3.5 years ago with a good brand one from Autozone.

 

thanks. Good point about the connections yes they were extremely corroded with that green powder stuff, They're been like that for at least a year but I figured I'd put more of that battery gel when I replace the battery, the Positive terminal was so corroded I think it started eating through the connector on the cable end that clamps onto the stub.



I cleaned it all and wire brushed to clean metal, and it made a small spark sound but very subtle and no visible spark when I put the Positive back on and it wont' start still. I think it's the battery is actually 6 years and 3 months old. Forgot to mention a couple weeks ago a couple times I'd go to start it and nothing at all would happen, I flip the key back to Off and try again and it started right up.



I have a like $500 analog multimeter and a cheap digital one but I have no idea how to test, to set to volts or ohms etc the dials etc I have no clue.



The battery is larger than it's supposed to be, it's from a grand Cherokee, it says Group 65 which might be the size which is about 11.5" long, 7.5" across the top, and 6.5" deep is about the biggest the battery tray can fit, I cut a small flap of metal from the Ranger frame to fit this battery in like 6 years ago. My dad linked me one from walmart a couple months ago was a good deal something like $100 and the largest capacity that will fit this even though it's larger than what this truck is supposed to use it's only beneficial to use the larger one I understand if anyone wants to link that from walmart but I'll see if I have the email from my dad still/ask again.



I think it's the battery and it says only 3 year warranty on the sticker (Interstate group 65 850 CCA).

 

that green powder stuff is battery acid leaking from your bad battery. replace it. they only last 4-5 years depending on the quality and where you live. heat/cold. set your multimeter to VDC for your truck needs. Sounds like you don't have a clue on what you are doing, take your truck to auto zone or advanced auto the will test and install for free.

 

I think you need a battery replacement.

 

5 years is a good run for a conventional battery. I agree, replace it.

 

Sounds like the battery leads need replaced too.