Want start My 1997 Ford Explorer will not start. Lights come on but it just will not turn over. When I keep trying to start I just smell gas. Help! Thank you.

Try the crankshaft position sensor located on front of enginebelow the fan. turn key and you should hear it whirl. If not tap with long screwdriver and have someone turn key.if this is the issue it will start.

Starters and starter solonoids are a big big problem on high mileage explorers Try to tap on the STARTER with a hammer not too hard there are magnets inside and you will crack them hit it firm though. Do you even get a 'CLICK" when you try to start it?
Get back to me after you do this and let me know also check out this website I created while I owned Ace Automotive Dianostic facility in Lakewood Wa for 14 years. http://www.aceautomotive1.com check out the FAQ and BLOG
feedback at [email protected] please.
If it starts after the test a NEW not rebuilt starter