1981 Ford F-150 Ranger Starting issues
 

Hello,

I have a 1981 Ford F-150 I6 Ranger that has a starting issue. The battery tests fine and is working. As I turn the key in the ignition the car wants to turn over but makes a whining/spinning noise, and subsequently won't start.

If anyone has some insight into the problem I would greatly appreciate it!

CharlieTX

Do some easy, FREE stuff first.. Take the cables off and get one of those battery post cleaners and clean the hell out of them.. Check the cable between the + cable to the starter and make sure it's all good. Do the same with the - cable to the chassis.

Could be the starter too. Is it the original or over 10 years old? I think that era still had the starter regulator/solenoid mounted next to the battery on the fender well??

Those are cheap to replace regardless, but it could still be the starter or the battery..

Hard to tell with those old rigs...

Good luck!

Mitch

Ok so I couldn't find any problems with any wiring or terminal contact. Battery is still good. I replaced the starter and solenoid. The truck started up after that and ran for two days. Now it is having the same problem again.

It can start if rolled. I was thinking of taking a look at the ring gear in the flywheel. What do you think?

CharlieTX