Hey guys,

I appreciate any help I can get!

I have a 1996 Ranger. 4 cyl, 2.3L, automatic, shifter on the column.

A couple days ago I took the steering column out to try to fix something, and after I put it back in and (I assumed) connected everything like it was, it won't start. Everything else comes on -- lights, wipers, etc. All that works. But it just won't turn over. Battery is good, too.

Anyone have any ideas what may cause this? Ive been trying everything I can think of... for probably 30 out of the last 48 hours. I'm out of ideas!

Thanks!

 

Have you tried shifting to Neutral and then starting, if trans is going fully into Park starter motor won't work

And when you say it "won't start", do you mean starter motor won't work, or starter is working but engine just turns and won't start?

Under the steering column is Clutch pedal By-Pass wires, Ranger with manual or automatic uses the same dash wiring
If automatic is installed then a By-Pass connector and wires are plugged into the clutch pedal switch connector, up under the dash
If it was unplugged then no start motor

 

RonD, thank you for your reply.

I should've been more specific ...it will not turn over at all. As in -- nothing happens at all when I try to start it.

Everything else is fine. I can turn the key and everything comes on -- lights, dash lights, wipers, anything I want. Except when i try to turn it over and start engine, nothing happens at all.

Like it's just not connected or something.

 

So a wire has been disconnected or fuse is blown

1996 had option of anti-theft system, not PATS, but did have starter motor interrupt RELAY

With anti-theft has relay, without anti-theft no relay so wiring is the same just a relay between fuse and clutch by-pass or no relay

Ignition switch-------(fuse24 cab fuse box)----Starter RELAY------Clutch by-pass-------------------TR sensor------------------------starter motor

TR=Transmission Range sensor it is on the transmission, on the shift rod, it passes voltage to starter motor to activate it if trans is in Park or Neutral

I assume you have check Fuse 24 in cab fuse panel