Hello again I'm still having starting issues with my 86 Ford ranger 2.3L when i try to use a remote start all i get is a really loud knock sound that comes from the starter solenoid. When i unhook the battery cables and then re attach the cables, i hear a series of clicks and then after that i lose all power to my solenoid, and then it doesn't even make a sound at all. My windshield wipers also come on (without the wipers being on) as well. Also is there a solenoid on the new starter i bought? Would that maybe have something to do with it? please help

 

For a 1986 2.3l gasoline engine then no, there would be no solenoid on the starter, it used a Bendix type system to move starter gear out to engage flywheel/flex plate

Test battery voltage, 12.3v to 12.8volt is expected
Don't care if its a new battery or "battery is OK" want to see its voltage

And test positive to engine metal
And then negative to Starter Relay's Battery positive post(see below)

Starter Relay, often called starter solenoid, is on the inner fender
Has 2 larger posts
One of the lager posts has the large Battery Positive cable on it, and several other wires with it, this is the 12volt power distribution point for the whole vehicle, this ONE POST
So make sure all wire ends are clean, and the battery positive cable as well on this post

The other larger post ONLY HAS ONE CABLE, to starter motor, this is important, ONLY THE ONE CABLE on this post

Smaller post on starter relay with the "S" mark, activates this relay, if relay is grounded(by its bolts to metal fender) then when this small post gets 12v the relay will "click" closed and starter motor will get full battery voltage thru the larger cables
Make sure WHEELS ARE BLOCKED and trans is in PARK or NEUTRAL, then use a short jumper wire from battery positive to this small post, starter should start working