2004 Ford Ranger 2.3 5 speed
replaced the clutch safety switch and it triggered the anti theft. I unplugged the battery and everything worked fine again. Now the truck won’t start again after putting another 200 miles on it. Relay clicks, no blown fuses. Put the original safety switch back in and still same problem. Unplugging the battery for 20 minutes works. No lights, no anti theft light

 

Welcome to the forum

If the starter relay in the engine bay fuse box "clicks" when key is turned to START then Clutch switch is OK, and PATS(anti-theft) is OK
If no "click" then check fuse 21 in cab fuse box, 5amp

If starter relay does "click" then tap on starter motor with hammer or ???, something heavier than lighter
If starter works now, its just temporary
Need a new starter

Heads up about "new" starters and alternators, they often fail out of the box or within a month or two so save the receipt
You can pay a fortune for Motorcraft(Ford) starter or alternator, they are tested and will work, but you pay for that testing

 

thank you sir! I believe it’s the starter. I bought a Bosch unit. Fingers crossed it’s a good one but I will save the receipt. Thank you for your help.