Fireranger.. do these trucks have fusable links? I wild check those

The starter should disengage VIA the signal wire telling it to. I would unplug the Signal wire and apply power. If it disengaged when power is removed look for a short in the signal wire.

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They used to use fusible links only for the alternator's main output where it connected to the power distro box under the hood. I think they still do but I'm not positive.

There is no "signal wire" for the starter. It is nothing more than conventional relays being energized by the ignition switch in the start position. They ignition switch turned to start energizes a small relay in the power distro box. That relays sends power from the distro box to the large relay built onto the starter. That relays sends power from the battery to the starter motor.

The only place key-on power and start circuit power are close enough to melt together is in or immediately around the ignition switch.

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(Formerly)
FireRanger
2003 Edge 4.0 4wd

How to: Aux light wiring, relays, & fuses
Info: 300+ intake threads here on FRF
Info: HID Projectors
How To: NO HEAT Troubleshooting Guide

i can unplug the signal wire from the solenoid to the starter and that will disengage the starter. the fusible link from the solenoid to the alternator smoked pretty bad i think that is the problem on the charging system. i believe that firefox is right and that there is a closed circuit somewhere in the ignition. Thank you all for your advice it has been very helpful.

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1997 Ford Ranger Splash
4x4 4.0L
American Racing Rims

after replacing five fuses, five inches of fusible link, and the solenoid i now have to replace the alternator but after that it will drive even though i still have to do some work on the ignition. thank you everyone for you advice it has been very helpful.

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1997 Ford Ranger Splash
4x4 4.0L
American Racing Rims