I used to have a similar problem on my 5-speed Escort... problem was that I wasn't pushing in the clutch far enough to reliably activate the clutch-safety-interlock switch.... (ie: the clutch was disengaged, but the switch didn't indicate that it was, and thus the starter was inhibited).

next time you're in the truck trying to start it, push the clutch all the way to the floor, and see if turning the key activates the starter...

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2001 Ranger XLT 4.0L SOHC
Silver Frost w/ Dark Graphite interior


Modifications
Summit 3" Body Lift
31x10.50 A/T tires
Explorer overhead console
Explorer auto-dim mirror
Explorer auto-headlights
Aux1 & Aux2 inputs on factory AM/FM/CD/Cassette
Door-dinger silencer button
Seamless retractable roof and passenger-side ejection seat with steering wheel mounted controls and safety interlock