2.3 Ranger
2003
211k miles
manual

I recently changed the spark plugs, oil, transmission fluid and installed new battery, belt tensioner pulley, IMRC switch.

Five days ago, ranger would not start. I got a jump start and went to the auto parts store. He tested battery and alternator and said it is fine. I turned off engine and it would not restart. Battery had full charge. Waited 5 minutes and it started. Store salesman said it may be my neutral safety switch or starter.

I continue driving to school and home with no problems. This evening, i attempt to start truck and it won’t start. Checked the battery cables (tight on battery), waited 5 minutes and it started. However I noticed that my radio clock was completely reset...

while attempting to start on these occasions, the gauges would not display readings.

what is the problem? I thought maybe ignition switch , but would that cut off all power to the radio clock?

please help!!

 

Welcome to the forum

No, its one of you battery cables, its losing its connection when used

Remove each cable at the battery and clean the terminal and cable
While both cables are off follow EACH ONE to where it connects to the vehicle, check/clean each one of those

The power to hold radio clock and presets is directly from a fuse in engine bay fuse box, so directly from battery
And radio is grounded to battery negative in the cab
And losing EITHER positive or negative battery connection means radio will lose time and presets, but the good thing is its NOT the starter motor, lol, at least not yet

And no its not the radio fuse