96 explorer sport starting headache

[BulletHD]

I have a 96 explorer sport. I went out to go to work and hit the alarm button , alarm sounded as usual, opened the door , had interior lights. Tried to start and when i turned the key all power shut off. I checked the battery cables, tight. I had to get to work so i left and jumped on my bike. When my girlfriend got home i used her truck to jump start it and it started just fine. figured Eric the 5 year old had left something on last time he was i the truck. let it run for a while, shut it off, tried to start it again and same results. So far i have disconnected the starter disable from the alarm and got a new battery. still haveing the same problem. all the accessories come on after disconnecting the battery and it resets. just wont start. Where do I go next ? thanks.

[ponchonutty]

Maybe bad battery or altinator. Even if the battery shows 12v, it could have a bad cell which might make it drop to 5v during crank.

[BulletHD]

Originally Posted by ponchonutty

Maybe bad battery or altinator. Even if the battery shows 12v, it could have a bad cell which might make it drop to 5v during crank.

I have already changed out the battery. I am leaning towards the starter relay or possibly the ignition switch. Just wondering which one to go with first. thinkin the starter relay since it is easier to get to. Thanks for the input.

[ponchonutty]

Yes, could very well be either that you mentioned. Usually if it is the starter relay or solanoid you can tap on it while cranking. If it then starts, you know what it is. I would also test the starter wire right at the ignition dist. block located on the steering colum. It is real easy to get at. Just a handful of I think 8mm bolts and you are there.

[BulletHD]

I replaced the starter relay and it started up right away thanks for your help

[ponchonutty]

Well thanks but I didn't really even do anything. Actually, I stated to check things that were not wrong first!