1993 Ranger, 4 cylinder, manual tranny. The problem started last July when the truck wouldn't start- just clicked like it had a dead battery. Since the battery on it was at least 12 years old, I pulled it off and got a new one. The truck started right up with the new battery-problem solved. NOT. About a week later it did the exact same thing, just clicked when I turned the ignition. OK I thought, I must have got a bad battery. I took the battery off and had it tested- it tested good.I put the battery back on and the truck started right up. No problems until a week or so later when once again I got the "click" instead of the engine turning over. A friend suggested that I check the clutch interlock switch. I fiddled around with the wires between the clutch pedal and emergency brake it and it started. It would start just fine most of the time, but every once in a while I would have to jiggle the wires a bit to get it started. I bought a new clutch interlock switch and put it on, but it didn't make any difference. The truck still has the same problem. Now jiggling the wires doesn't always work- sometimes I have to jump the solenoid to get it started. I should mention that the problem is random- it has happened in cold weather, hot weather, cold engine, warm engine,damp conditions and dry weather. It may start fine for several weeks or it may do this two or three times in a row. No pattern to it what-so-ever. On average it happens about twice a week (the truck is a daily driver). This has been a real head scratcher for me, and I would be thankful for any advice.

 

well obviously a bad connection. id get out a volt meter and a wiring diagram. im thinking ignition switch to be honest.

 

Yeah, I'm thinking an electrical/switch problem too. I had considered the ignition switch, or maybe the wiring harness that plugs into the clutch interlock switch. When I get a day off with good weather ( I have to work on it outside) I plan on checking those things. I have checked the connections under the dash and they seem solid. Meanwhile I thought maybe I could get some advice here to guide me. Thanks for the reply.

 

Rick,

Here's a couple of things you might try. Remove the solenoid from the fender and ensure you have a good clean contact between the fender and solenoid (this is the ground path for the S terminal on the solenoid). Clean the S terminal and the associated connector. Clean your battery ground cable to chassis connection. Double check the clutch interlock switch connector.

 

Thanks Rev, good advice and will do.