1991 Ranger Fuel or Ignition Problem?

[gungfudan]

My dad just recently bought two Rangers and the one I am going to ask about is the 1991 2.3L with a manual transmission. When you turn the key to start the truck it does not turn the engine over which makes you think it is the ignition. The the guy who owned it before put a push button start in but the fuel pump does not come on when the key is in the run position.

So where do I start, should I just chalk it up to the ignition?

 

[Mikel89us]

Sounds like ignition is likely, but there should be a power relay, check the relay to be working first. My truck I just had to put a starter button in because it wouldn't send enough voltage to the solenoid to kick the starter on, but my fuel pump runs.

 

[tomw]

Did you check the clutch pedal safety switch? The switch must close with the pedal to the floor to allow the starter motor to engage & crank the engine. You can jumper to test, but it is recommended you replace the switch if bad.
The ignition switch itself may also be a cause of the problem, as they can start to come apart with enough age. You can remove the column cover and inspect the switch appearance to see if it is becoming un-crimped and springing apart. The wire loom connector will start to pull the switch apart with age, leading to poor contact internally.
tom