I have a question concerning a Ranger that won't start. I know the answer to the question is simple, and somehow I am overlooking.

My initial problem was that something was draining the battery, and I had taken it so many times to my mechanic, and spent money I didn't need to, I decided I would track the problem down myself. But it sat for awhile, and I would charge the battery, take it around locally to haul trash, etc, then bring it home.

This morning, I almost had it started, just to try to back it up to the driveway and fill the bed with trash, and it stalled out. I took the battery out, and charged it, and put it back in. Now, when i try to start it, all I hear is the relay under the hood chatter.

Given that the relay is chattering, and I don't even hear the bendix on the starter kicking in, is it safe to assume that the relay is good? I know they don't run much, but I have already replaced an old alternator on this truck, thinking it was bad; all I ended up with was a new alternator, and an old one that later proved to still be good. I am trying to keep from experimenting with parts like I have seen some do.

One other question. If my battery is bad, would it still be possible to start the Truck by having it hooked up to a charger/starter on a 50 amp setting, or by having it jumpered to another vehicle? I have tried starting the truck both ways, and the relay still chatters.

Thanx in advance for any help.

Perry

 

I would check all the wiring, especially the grounds. Sounds like that may be the problem. What year is the truck? If it is the starter relay, you should be able to "jump" across the terminals to start the truck.

 

You use a screwdriver to jump the top terminal on the relay to the terminal closest to the battery to start it, right?
I tried this, and it still chattered.
As loud as it was, I was pretty certain that it was the relay itself.

Truck is a 1989 Ford Ranger with 2.9 6-cylinder.
Thanks in advance.
Perry

 

Try jumping across the relay with a jumper cable. Go from the battery side of the relay to the other big cable on the relay going to the starter. That completely eliminates the relay, and if the starter turns over, it is the relay. If it just sparks, it probably the starter. Be prepared for a lot of sparks! Wear some goggles.

 

I would take the battery to the parts store and have it tested or swap a different battery in the truck and see if it acts the same.

 

Automotive Repair Rule # 1: Is the battery good? Prove it.
Before you go head-hunting for faulty parts, keep it simple and check all the basics.