starter

[guyroberts68]

Ok, I'm working on an 01 ranger 5 speed 2.5L. Changed the starter 8 months ago, now it seems the new one has gone out turn the key all you get is a click. Using a jumps starter makes no difference you still get one click and that is it. Got a new starter today just put it on same thing. If any one has any leads I can fallow would be most appreciative.

 

[rtg143]

I'd look for a connection problem. Check all of the grounds too.

 

[guyroberts68]

Yea they look good.
The starter that was on the truck was 8 months old it just started doing this a few weeks ago, and we push started it and it started working fine. So when it quit working again we figured bad starter. New starter came to day took the old one off put the new one on and there is no change in the problem. The mechanic up the road suggested a bad connection or ground possibly, but with the head lights on they hardly even dim when you turn the key. So I have no idea.

 

[rich060685]

Check to be sure the started didn't shake or vibrate loose. Mine did that before on a 79 gmc. But my ranger now has a dead spot in starter and does the same thing occasionally then works itself out. My last time it did this I had to tap the starter for about 3 weeks to start it daily

 

[monsterchuck]

I can't remember if your 2001 has a solenoid on the inner fender or not, but have you checked that?

 

[RonD]

The click comes when key is turned to start, correct?

Not just when key is turned to run, if there is no click when key is turned to start then your NSS may be unhooked, or bad.
The NSS(neutral safety switch) is on the clutch pedal in your 5-speed, it allows the starter motor to get power only when the clutch is in all the way.
On an automatic it is on the transmission shifter.

If there is a click when key is turned to start:
Follow the large Red cable from the Battery, it will go to the Starter Solenoid.
This is a relay that is activated by the Key being in the Start Position, that is the "Click" you hear.
Inside the solenoid is a large contact that connects the large red battery wire to the large start motor wire, lots of amps going thru there.

This inside contact can get worn and no long make the connection, so you get the "click" but no power is passing to the starter motor.

Replace this solenoid, take a picture of it so you remember which wires go where.



You can by pass the solenoid with a jumper cable, from the + battery terminal to the starter motor cable on the solenoid.
THIS BY PASSES ALL SAFETY FEATURES SO TRANSMISSION MUST BE IN NEUTRAL!



If a starter solenoid is clicking multiple times before starter turns it usually means battery is starting to die.
A good battery will have 12.5volts or higher with key off
A battery on it's way out will have 12.4volts and lower.

With engine idling the battery should have 13.6volts or higher, you need 1.1volts above batteries static voltage to maintain the charge on a battery.
1.2volts and up to charge battery

 

[Tractor Dan]

Double check your connections at your battery terminals. Had that happen around easter. Thought it was the starter. Figured out the bolts on the battery cables for the clamps were just loose. Most likely it ain't that but figured why not toss the easy advice out maybe it will pay off.

 

[modelageek]

Ron mentioned the NSS. I am betting you have a 5 speed and the issue is the clutch pedal positioning switch. I assume you installed a new starter and solenoid. You do not have a fender relay and your headlights work. You can use a MM and test for power. Then no need to guess.

If you determine it might be the cpp switch it is a little unconformable to access. Lay on your back. Once you figure out how it comes out it takes 2 minutes to change.