Turn Key Everything Dead

[Blueoval69302]

Hello,
I am working on a '95 4.0L ranger. It is having an intermittent electrical problem. Sometimes when the owner turns the key to start the entire truck goes dead. Zero power, even the radio presets are lost. I have replaced the ignition switch up under the steering column and that did not fix the problem. Battery cables look ok, and about a year ago the starter relay was changed. All Ford parts. Thoughts?
Thanks
Phil

 

[Earl43P]

Could be a bad starter, bad cable to the starter, bad battery terminal or cable, bad ground, etc. Simple tests with a voltmeter should figure it out.

In this instance, I would rule out the starter first (remove it and have it tested) and go after bad connections/cables/grounds if the starter tests good.

 

[RobbieD]

"go after bad connections/cables/grounds"; agree.

 

[Blueoval69302]

i forgot, i did put new battery cables on about a year ago. Terminals are spotless and solid connections between cable/starter and cable/frame. Is there a master relay like what some Dodges have?

 

[Earl43P]

Disconnect battery.

Take the big red power terminal off of the starter.
Don't let it touch anywhere.
Reconnect the battery.

Turn the key. If it stayed powered up, replace the starter.

Yes, I think 95 still has a solenoid on the fender. I've never seen one act as you described. It delivers power to the starter.