Starting issue? Neutral/park switch?

[BKnecht01ranger]

I drive an 01 Ranger XLT, 4x4, 4.0. The issue i have been having lately is my ranger won't start sometimes. Sometimes it will start from "park", sometimes from neutral. around 1 year ago I replaced the starter, still had the same problem. I then replaced the neutral/park switch on the side of the transmission. Problem solved I thought. Now it is doing the same thing. When it doesn't want to start, I fiddle with the switch a bit & tap on the starter, then it'll usually start. The battery & upgraded alternator are only about 2 years old. Anyone else had this problem? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[RonD]

Could it be the PATS system, anti-theft?
If it's getting wonky(technical term ) then it would disable the starter from time to time.

The shift cable or linkage could be the culprit, under the dash are a couple of screws that can make the shift position erratic, if they are loose.
Also there was a member here that had the cable cover come apart on the bend down to the transmission, so it would slide in on itself now and then making the shift position erratic.

 

[BKnecht01ranger]

Thanks for the quick reply. I have messed the shift position indicator before, to get the indicator on the dash lined up. Also have had to replace one of the 2 hex head bolts the hold the shift lever into position. Could very well be the problem again. I will try to adjust everything with this again. Don't believe it's a problem with the anti-theft. Thanks again.

 

[Road Angels]

Does it do it hot or cold? or makes no difference? jump the wires to the neutral safety switch may be the new one has gone bad, just make sure its in park it will start in any postion and run you over.... dont know if the starter solinoid, is on the starter and banging on it is helping it make contact, or the commutater has a bad spot and banging on is helping it to make better brush contact, just cause parts are fairly new doesnt mean they cant go bad in real short order,