I have an 89 ranger and it won't start. I replaced the coil, plugs and wires and even checked the inertia switch. Any suggestions? maybe the distributor?

 

Spark AND fuel. And timing. And compression. You mention electrical only. Does vehicle have throttle body or carb, and have you checked for fuel hitting the throttle plate? Certain you are not out of gas? (I was recently even though the gauge said I wasn't even low! - cost me 1/2 day fruitless diagnosis!)Have you tried to see if it will start with starting fluid into the throttle plate, and if it goes then, you probably have fuel issue rather than spark issue. Have you actually checked to see if you are getting spark past the distributor? Does engine crank-sound and speed seem like normal or is it spinning faster than normal, which could indicate timing belt/chain issue?

 

What engine do you have? If it's the v6 and no spark, considering what you have replaced, I would pull the ignition module on the side of the distributor and have it checked. Those were bad about going bad in those years.

If you have spark, turn on the key for about 15 seconds and turn it off. Then look for a little schrader valve on the fuel rail on top of the engine. The rail is a little sliver pipe that feeds fuel to the injectors. The valve looks like a tire valve. Take off the cap and depress the valve with an ink pen. You should get a little spurt of fuel out of the valve. If not you have a fuel problem. It could be the filter, pump, pressure regulator, flow obstruction, etc.

Hope this helps,

Bob