92 Ranger not moving

[ozarktrails]

I have a 92 Ranger that started giving me fits just lately. The problem came all at once so I fugure it is catastrophic and not cumulative, but I am no expert at all. It will not start without being jumped by another vehicle and when you take off the jumper cables it shuts down. With jumper cables attached it will start, but does not want to idle well if the accelerator is pushed. I lost all dash lights and head lights but can get them to blink if the battery cables are jiggled...the connections are clean and tight. The battery checks out good at Autozone store and will hold a charge.

Could it be the voltage regulator or alternator...both?
I know I need to replace the cables with the jiggling and blinking.

Any help will be appreciated.

 

[RobbieD]

Honestly, you need to replace the known-bad battery cables, then see what you've got and go from there. Even though the connections look clean and tight, battery cables can rot and go bad on the inside. So, try replacing those cables first, and good luck.

 

[Nomad502]

Check the other ends of the cables. You could have a loose ground at the engine or frame... or both. Find 'em, clean 'em and seal 'em!