hey! first post: just got mine last year and just found this... got a 97 ranger xlt, 2 wheel drive: the last couple of days it started to make a loud click upon first start after it sat for a while... after the first start, it kinda goes away... sounds like it's underneath the hood and on the lower side (maybe). at first the engine starts right up, no problem, then after it winds down, there is a very audible click then maybe another little one...

first thought is start or solenoid but not sure...

thanks for any help!

 

Welcome to the forum


Doesn't ring any bells for me

1997 will have starter relay/solenoid on the starter motor, that is what makes the "Click, click, click" noise when you have failing battery or bad battery cable, and a no start.

Not sure if 1997 2.3l had another Starter relay in the engine fuse box, V6s did, but it wouldn't be a loud click.
These smaller 12volt relays just are not that loud.

You may be hear an arcing when alternator powers up, so loose battery cable or starter motor cable