2001 Ranger with 2.3l Duratec engine has PATS(passive anti-theft system) which can disable starter motor if PATS ignition key doesn't pass "test" when key is turned on.
BUT...........you should get a Rapid Flashing "Theft light" on the dash
Check fuse #26 in cab fuse box, 10amp, its for the Theft light, but also powers GEM and dash
Also check Fuse #24 in cab fuse box, 7.5amp, 12v passes thru there when key is turned to START
You have TWO starter relays, the one that is on the starter motor itself, and there is one in the engine fuse box, it activates the one on the starter motor.
The Starter Relay in the fuse box is the one that is GROUNDED by the Computer if PATS key passes the "test".
It is a standard automotive 12v relay, so you could swap it with AC relay, for example, but these rarely fail.
Power path for 12volt side
Battery-----ignition switch-----Fuse #24----neutral/clutch switch------------Starter Relay(engine fuse box)--------starter relay(on starter motor)
If you bypassed neutral switch use a test light or voltmeter on that wire to make sure it has 12v when key is turned to START, if not recheck Fuse #24