1989 Ranger starter problem

[DavDidIt]

My 1989 Ford Ranger starter (2.9 4x4 manual) only works rarely and I suspect a mechanic tried to get it to work but maybe installed the wrong starter. I am having a really difficult time removing it. Sometimes I can get it to start when I pound on it (shameful, I know) but most of the time I have to push it off. Then my truck runs. It seems like it is not hitting the flywheel properly. I'm not sure which starter I am supposed to have since the one on it has a cone on it, but when I look it up under genuine Ford Ranger parts, it doesn't have the cone and I can't see how it will fit. When I do find a starter online that has the cone, it seems to fit a range of trucks and I'm not sure about that. Due to the age of my truck, I prefer to find a used starter. I might need the flywheel too, I don't know. Two mechanics have not been able to fix the issue and pushing it off is often very inconvenient as well as tiring!

 

[DavDidIt]

This is the starter I took off... right or wrong part?

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

Looks like the right model but not something you can tell just from a picture

Yes, 2.9l starters had lots of issues as these engines got older and new parts scarcer

Yes, you need a starter for 1989 2.9l manual trans, 1986 to 1991 2.9l were the same
Used and rebuilt starters usually have worn bolt holes so starter doesn't always line up properly, but that causes grinding noise NOT a no crank

Tapping on a starter motor to get it to working means the brushes inside are worn out, they are sticking in their holders so can't make good contact with the rotor(part that spins)
Can also be the starter relay on the inner fender is not working reliably, often called starter solenoid

Starter for your year should look like this: https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-35f...12/406663/apisjxxsb__34158.1620685553.jpg?c=2

2.9l didn't get this type until last year in 1992: https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/0vEAAOSwRYZfocfE/s-l1600.jpg

You can rewire to use either but best to stay with stock model

 

[DavDidIt]

Thank you so much. I have already replace the solenoid. Sticking with stock and brand new. High hopes!

 

[RonD]

Have a good look at the larger battery cable from relay to starter motor
Give the ends a good brush, wire brush, and look for a whitish powder where cable part and the ends attach, it means cable is corroded inside insulation so needs to be replaced