Starting Problem: Solved

[StudilyDoRight]

I already fixed the problem, I'm just posting my story cause I couldn't find the cause on any forums and someone else may be having the same problem.

I bought my 87 ranger with a "bad clutch". The previous owner said the clutch was preventing it from starting. The neutral safety switch was plugged in, but the starter wasn't getting power through turning the key. The truck would start just fine from arching across the solenoid points.

The battery tested at 12.8 after sitting all night, but the solenoid wouldn't click even once, with the key or with a hard wire from the battery. So, naturally I replaced the solenoid. Then the solenoid clicked but wouldn't turn the starter.

Next I checked the resistance from my negative battery post to my frame, and the ground tested solid. Battery terminals were tight and un-corroded. Finally I load tested my battery and my voltage dropped off the meter. So I replaced the battery and it starts with the key just fine, but the rear differential is destroted.

Moral of the story: you never know how good a deal is until you find the actual problem.

 

[Mark_88]

Good to hear...I've been thinking about replacing my battery lately because it is approaching 4 years since it was new and spunky...I think the average battery lasts 5 years before it is seriously in need of replacement, but have had them last much longer.

 

[rtg143]

My wife had a battery in her car for 5 years so I replaced it. A couple months later she said she heard a bang under the hood and it wouldn't start. I thought it backfired but when I went there, I found the top of the battery blown off. There was a poor joint in one cell that finally blew. So, you never know.

 

[doorgunner]

Thanks for the symptom/Solution(s)!!!!!!