Hi, everyone. I have a 2001 Ranger 2.5L that won't start. Turning the key produces a rapid clicking as if the battery was low, but it couldn't be jumped. The battery is only s few months old, and the alternator was replaced two months ago. When I initially tried starting it, none of the interior lights came on. With the jumper cables connected, the interior lights and radio worked, but the engine did not turn over. When I removed the key from the ignition, the clicking noise, lights, and radio remained on for several seconds. Anyone know what's up? Thanks!

 

Yes, you have a bad battery cable connection, assuming you are correct about battery, if you have a volt meter use it
Good battery will read 12.3v to 12.8volts

Remove battery cables, follow each one, positive AND Negative, to their other ends and clean that connection, remove it clean it and reconnect it

Then clean battery terminals and cables, reconnect


You have low voltage so the relays can't stay closed so they click open and closed, GEM module is causing the cab relays to click after key is off until voltage drops low enough for it to shut down

 

Thanks, RonD! You're a lifesaver. Once I knew where to look, I could see that the positive terminal had nearly corroded through. I replaced it, and she fired right up.

 

Good work

Thanks for the update and the FIX