94 Ranger

Cant get the darn thing to start all of a sudden. It will start completely randomly, but rarely. Checked voltage on battery, cables and starter solenoid, all seem fine. Cleaned neg battery post and cable connector, nada. Starter is about a year old so I wouldnt think that would be the problem. Sometimes when I try to start it, the battery gauge flutters back and forth. Also the stereo will turn on/shut off, turn on/shut off as long as I have the stereo on. Any ideas?

i would start with the starter. even if it's a year old it was prob a rebuild and i've seen em go quick.

i had similiar issues and would have to jump start it at the starter solenoid, using a screwdriver to make contact on the bolts. i was told by my mechanic that it was a faulty clutch switch and by the auto parts store the solenoid was bad.

i ignored them both and instead replaced my ignition/key lock cylinder because it would move without a key in it, i figured it might be causing my issues, and sure enough, it fixed my problem. i didnt have to replace the clutch switch or starter after all!