93 ranger not charging
 

3.0 liter. I have checked from the alt. to the solenoid and its fine, but from the selenoid to the battery is bad, but there is a black rubber thing that they wire to the alt comes from at the solenoid that connects to both sides of the solenoid. what is this thing? can it be replaced or bypassed? I see no fuses in it and don't get it. battery is fine as is the alt., just not getting to the battery.

I just re checked continuity from the solenoid to the battery and its good on the alt. side of the solenoid and not good on the opposite side and not good between them. I don't know if that's normal or indicates bad.

They are Fusible links.
A fusible link is used because it won't "blow" like a regular fuse when there is a short voltage spike.
A fusible link is a short wire that is a smaller gauge than the "main" wire it protects, it is made to melt and separate without causing a fire.
Google: Ford fusible links

The B+ terminal on the backside of alternator should have 12volts all the time, that is the battery connection, it is the big wire(s).
The yellow/white wire on the 3 connector plugin should also have 12volts all the time.
These are all using fusible links, and 0 volts means blown fusible link.

There is a light green/red wire on the 3 connector plugin, this is the ON/OFF switch for the alternator, it should have 12 volts but only when key is on.

ok I understand that. I don't get how its protecting anything given that the battery is basically still charging. I am still getting continuity to the battery. just not from the other leg. I am not a ford person and this is my first truck and I do like it a lot. just tring to figure this electrical system our is starting to be a challenge. should or can I bypass this issue? meaning treat it like a one wire alt. can I even purchase this link? it looks to be a major pain to replace.

and thanks for responding.

Not quite following what your problem is, as far as "legs".
But NO, do not bypass fuse or fusible link, yes you can buy fusible links at auto parts stores or replace with in line fuse.

Here is the wiring diagram for '93 3.0l Ranger, see attachment.
Your '93 does also use fuses, so only 1 fusible link to battery(relay), my mistake.

Starter relay(assume you are calling this the solenoid) is the power distribution point for the 12volt side of the system, so alternators B+ will go there and be connected on the same post as the Battery's Positive cable.
And all the other power OUT wires will also be on that same post.

There should be a larger cable on Battery positive post that goes directly to starter motors solenoid, the starter relay on the fender just activates the solenoid on the starter in '93, it doesn't pass power for the starter motor itself, the larger cable does that.