My 2004 Ranger won't start. No click, no nothing. It was time to replace the battery anyway, so I did. Without the solenoid even clicking I am assuming it's the starter relay. I have the cover off of the fuse box so how do I identify which relay is the one for the starter?

 

I wouldn't assume starter relay in fuse box first, it's a "last on the list" for No Crank, most common is "neutral switch" issue or blown fuse

When you turn the key on Theft light should be OFF and not Flashing Rapidly, that indicates a PATS issue

When you turn the key to START the ignition switch under the steering column sends 12volts to Fuse #21(5amp) in the Cab Fuse box(passenger side kick panel)
This 12v is passed on to a Neutral switch
Neutral switch is a Clutch Switch on Manual trans, or a DTR sensor on an automatic
Clutch switch is on the clutch pedals push rod, and it can fall off

DTR sensor is on the drivers side of transmission, it passes the 12v to starter relay in Park or Neutral
A Loose column shifter is Common in Rangers with automatics, so DTR sensor may not be fully in Park even though transmission is, so doesn't pass the 12v
Try shifting to Neutral and see if starter works
Google: Ranger loose column shifter

Starter relay in fuse box is GROUNDED by PATS so when it gets the 12v from DTR sensor it will close and send 12v from fuse #7(40amp) to the starter motor to activate it

Ignition switch(12volts)--------------Fuse #21-------------------------DTR sensor--------------------------Starter relay------Ground(PATS)

Fuse #7--------------starter relay--------------------starter motor

You can download 2004 owners manual here, it will have fuse and relay layouts: https://www.ranger-forums.com/genera...1-models-3747/

 

Thanks for the info!

 

After checking the relay and the fuse in the kick panel I pulled the starter and bench tested it and it failed! Checked with the local NAPA and they wanted $130 so I went home and ordered from Rock Auto at like 2pm on Monday and FEDEX delivered on Tuesday morning at about 10:30 am for $64.64. Between the raindrops on Tuesday I had it in and working in about 45 minutes. Thanks again for the info though!

 

Good work

And good price on the new starter motor