Just curious

Hello Everyone,

Every time I start my 2000 Ranger (manual transmission, V4), I hear two very load "relay like clicks". Does anyone know what these things are? I figure that if my ranger doesn't start sometime and I don't hear those clicks it would help me deduce what is wrong.

Thanks for the help.

Best Regards,
Stan

I think your engine is I-4. Nonetheless, sounds like you got problems with the starter solenoid.

I think your engine is I-4. Nonetheless, sounds like you got problems with the starter solenoid.

DonSor,
Your correct about the I-4. Its my first inline and I keep forgetting that its not a V

About the loud clicks, does nayone else have them? If not, then maybe something is going bad.

Best Regards,
Stan

i may have the same sound, it only happens for me on cold days right after i start the truck and lasts for about 2-3 seconds, but im sorry to say i don't know the cause

i may have the same sound, it only happens for me on cold days right after i start the truck and lasts for about 2-3 seconds, but im sorry to say i don't know the cause

Now that its starting to warm up here, I have not heard the clicking sound as well. It did sound like some big relays for 2-3 seconds. Thanks for the post and confirmation.

Best Regards,
Stan

Your solenoid contact maybe badly pitted. That could cause high resistance and also could cause it to momentarily "fuse" during start. I would advise you to correct the problem now cause it may cause additional more serious damage to your starter system.

Your solenoid contact maybe badly pitted. That could cause high resistance and also could cause it to momentarily "fuse" during start. I would advise you to correct the problem now cause it may cause additional more serious damage to your starter system.

Donsor,
Will do. In my Haynes book, it does not have a part in the starter system called a solenoid. However, it does have a "starter relay", that's located between the battery and the power distribution box. Is that what your talking about??

Thanks again,
Stan

Some call it "solenoid", others "starter relay". They're the same. It's called solenoid because there is a coil that when energized (by your ignition switch) actuates a plunger that closes a set of contacts and engages a gear which allows the starter motor to turn your engine.

Some call it "solenoid", others "starter relay". They're the same. It's called solenoid because there is a coil that when energized (by your ignition switch) actuates a plunger that closes a set of contacts and engages a gear which allows the starter motor to turn your engine.

Donsor,
Thanks. I'll pick up the part on the way home.

Best Regards,
Stan