I have a 1997 Ford Ranger 4x2 with the 4.0 engine that the battery will not charge in. I initially thought it was the altenator so had old one tested (good). put new one in anyway. still not working. Checked wire with fusible link. tested good. checked continuity on all wires to and from altenator. all checked good. Also, all related fuses test good. Cannot figure this one out. battery light is on on dash panel. disconnect + battery terminal...ranger dies. Same if - battery terminal is disconnected. Any other ideas that i may be missing? Thanks for any help or ideas.

 

My 2002 2.3 which I know is different had this same issue, turned out to be a dry rotted and corroded split in two fusible link next to the Positive battery cable.

 

awesome! nailed it. thank you!

 

glad to help