1985 Ford Ranger solenoid/starter

SWELLMEL

MEMBER
1985 FORD RANGER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
22,500 MILES

Installed a new starter solenoid and it still needs to be jumped out at solenoid to start. High amp draw when key turned to start. "If it's the starter", why would you be able to jump it out at the solenoid? Could I have bought a defective solenoid?

Monday, January 14th, 2008 AT 3:38 PM

2 Replies

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

Could be a bad ground at the relay, or bad battery cable(s) Check and test cables. Use a voltmeter while cranking to see voltage draw at cables and at starter.

You might want to check the fusible links that attach to the relay...You have too much resistance in the circuit somewhere, when you jump the relay, does it crank slow or fast? If crank speed is good, remove and clean all cable and link ends at the relay, and make sure it has a good ground.

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Monday, January 14th, 2008 AT 5:35 PM

SWELLMEL

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Did everything you suggested to no avail. I did remove the cable going to the starter and jumped out the relay and held it there for a few seconds.I found a dead short in a wiring harness over by the intake manifold. Thanks for your help, and when I find gainfull employment, I'll be sure to make a contribution to yall's site.