98 wont start

[scurfman]

I have a 98 4.0L 4x4 with the OHV. Three times now in the past few weeks my truck has not started. The first time I thought it was my starter because it had plenty of juice. I hit the starter and it started. The second time I assumed that it was my starter and was going to replace it but I jumped my starter with a screw driver and it spun fine, so I looked elsewhere. I took my truck out of park and into neutral and it started right up, so I assumed it was the park neutral switch. Now it won't start no matter what I do. Does anyone know how I can diagnose this further? All relays are clicking and the truck has a good battery with full power. Where is the park neutral switch on these trucks? Could it be the ignition switch, or could the starter spin with a screw driver and still be bad? Thanks for your help guys!

 

[jmg8550]

Your park/neutral switch is on the transmission where the shift cable is. These do have a tendency to go out. Does your truck have a passive anti theft system? Are you using a different key than you normally do?

 

[mht95ranger]

I had the same problem and after a $140 bill from the shop I found out I had a bad ground strap!!

 

[scurfman]

I do have a factory anti theft system but I am using the same key. I have had a 3" body lift on for about four years now and I know that it puts more strain on the shift cables... could this have anything to do with the park neutral switch? Also is there any way to check for bad grounds or connections? I have a volt meter but I don't know where to test it. Thanks for your help!!!