Introduction:
Is the charging system in your old Ford Ranger not working properly? Here is a basic charging system troubleshooting guide that may help.
Battery will not hold a charge
1. Alternator drive belt defective or not adjusted properly.
2. Electrolyte level low or battery discharged.
3. Battery terminals loose or corroded
4. Alternator not charging properly
5. Loose, broken or faulty wiring in the charging circuit.
6. Short in the vehicle wiring causing a continuous drain on the battery.
7. Battery defective internally.
Ignition light fails to go out
1. Fault in the alternator or charging circuit
2. Alternator drive belt defective or not properly adjusted
Ignition light fails to come on when key is turned on
1. Instrument cluster warning light bulb defective
2. Alternator faulty
3. Fault in the instrument cluster printed circuit, dashboard wiring or bulb holder
Charging System Problems
For more information on your charging system and how to check it, click HERE.
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.
Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.