i have a 92 ranger 4.0 2wd auto . two new carquest starters and one j/y starter same end result grinding ,kinda sounds like the bendex isnt engaging all the way.i kinda hope it the cable . that will be the next step if i cant find any help, so please help lol

 

Were there any shims with the original starter? Have you looked at the flywheel teeth?

 

Good suggestions.
What is the sound they make, is it a grinding noise or a fast clicking ?

if clicking:
1) Check the cable connections batt to relay, relay to starter, if there is a separate rely.
2) If the relay is separate check the mounting for a good ground.

If the noise is a grinding follow bjohnston238’s suggestion, also check to see if there is anything getting in the way of the starter sitting flat.