Starting issues

[timfost85]

Hi all,

My '93 Ranger is having some difficulties related to starting.

First, it has been starting really hard. The starter and battery were working fine, but it just won't turn over when it's hot outside. When it's cooler, it doesn't seem to have an issue.

Second, I went out this morning to start it up, and all it would do when I cranked is a click-- no starter action. I thought it may be the battery, but I ruled that out with jumper cables (and the lights and all worked fine).

I'm beginning to think that the starting issues have lead to the demise of my starter that I replaced only a couple years ago. I tried to give it a "cool-off" period after failed starts, but perhaps not enough time?

Questions: 1) What could be the culprit for the starting issue in the first place and 2) should I check something else before assuming that the starter went bad?

 

[timfost85]

2) should I check something else before assuming that the starter went bad?

I feel stupid (more than usual). Right after writing the post, I thought I'd better check the battery terminals. I tapped them and started it right up!

This still leaves me with the question about why it's starting hard.

Thanks!

 

[adsm08]

Batteries don't work as well in extreme temps. So if you have issues with cranking when hot it may be a battery. Get the battery tested while it is hot.

 

[Andy D]

clean the terminals and the battery posts. Then tighten them.