97 ranger splash starting issues

[spark plug]

My mom's ranger doesn't want to start with key but if you jump the terminals on the solonoid it starts is this an ignition wire on starter faulty or solonoid?

 

[willy]

Id say the starter excite wire isnt getting power with key on check the starter relay first if its not the relay start chasing wires o and before all that have some one turn the key to start and check with a fluke to see if theres power

 

[spark plug]

Id say the starter excite wire isnt getting power with key on check the starter relay first if its not the relay start chasing wires o and before all that have some one turn the key to start and check with a fluke to see if theres power

Thanks Willie but if the relay was bad would I hear the solonoid click?

 

[willy]

The relay is the switch that sends power to the selnoid if the selnoid is clicking but not starting the truck id replace the starter try hitting it with a hammer if it starts then replace the starter the selnoid is bad and sticking

 

[tomw]

Which wires are being jumped? The solenoid on the fender near the battery or the terminals on the starter itself?
The relay on the inner fender can be operated by connecting the small terminal to the 'hot' side connector. That simulates key switch action and if successful, points to the ignition switch itself or safety{clutch pedal/auto neutral} switch preventing power to operate the relay being the source of the problem.
If jumpering the relay just causes clicking or buzzing, then more testing is required.
If jumpering around the relay using LARGE jumper cables enables the starter, then the relay itself may have worn contacts and need repair or replacement.
If jumpering past the relay results in clicking, then the solenoid on/in the starter or the starter itself may be failing. That's when you try the hammer test [gently, as things can and will break when hammers are brought into play. Some starter motors have ceramic magnets that can shatter, and then it is new starter time]
tom