I often borrow my dad's 1993 Ranger 4x4 (manual transmission) to cut firewood on our mountain land and most of the time it works fine but occasionally it will just not start at all. The dash lights come on though it won't crank at all. But if I am able to coast it forward just a few feet it will then start. Note that I'm not bump starting it, I'm just rolling it forward a bit. It has a good battery and dad already had the starter and solenoid replaced but this still happens from time to time. It's a bit worrying when out in the woods far from home. Any ideas? Is there a neutral safety switch on the clutch that could be causing this problem?

 

Yes, there is a switch at the clutch pedal (clutch interlock switch). Other things you might want to check is the starter solenoids ground path. Simply remove the solenoid from the fender and ensure you have a good clean contact between the solenoid and fender. Check the "S" (ignition crank) terminal on the soleniod ensuring its clean and tight. Check the battery ground cable to chassis connection.