Engine turns over...

'98 3.0 4x4, 45k original miles.

I had my ranger parked for a few days outside, when I went to move it into the garage it started right up, drove it about 5 feet, and it cut out on me. Managed to get it backed into the garage by keeping it reved up, but it didnt want to stay running.
It has just under a 1/2 a tank of gas in it, and it hasnt been showing any signs of this problem before.
Any ideas what may cause this problem? Were are some simple-stupid things I should check first before I rip the fuel system apart in a completly ignorant fashion?

Any feedback is greatly appreciated folks,

Thanks again.
JP

best to start with a code scan. they are priceless with new cars

First thing to do is a fuel pressure test. Install a fuel pressure gauge on the schrader valve on fuel rail and turn key on. Pressure should be around 30-36 psi. If it does not reach that, turn key off and on about 3 times. Leave it on a few seconds each time. If pressure comes up, the fuel pump is weak and getting ready to quit.

Ok, have to go get a fuel pressure gage from the parts store in the A.M. and give that a shot.
Thanks for the advice, I'll let you know what turns up out of the pressure test.

Thanks again folks for the help.

JP

Hello,
Had the exact same thing happen on my 98' 4 cyl. Ranger, in my case it was the "Mass Airflow Sensor" located on the air filter housing and connecting to the air intake duct. Mine would run as long as the key was turned to ignition. Try tapping on it -- may work till replaced.

Bob

Alrighty I finally got around to working with this truck today. ( '98 3.0 45k miles)

This is what I came up with:

1) Changed fuel filter, still wont stay running.

2) Ran a scan on it, came up with 0 (zero) errors, nothing is wrong according to the computer.

3) Ran a fuel pressure check at the schrader valve as Way2old had said to, turned the key to the on position, and it held at 30 psi, cranked it once and it held at 60psi.

Bob I also tried tapping the air sensor as you suggested but no good came of it =(.

So My conclusion is that the fuel pump is fine, the engine is getting fuel, the vacuum lines look good, I see nothing out of the ordinary.

Suggestions? I was going to check the plugs and wires next, maybe I have a bad wire. What about the throttle position sensor?
Any feedback is greatly appreciated gentleman.

Thanks again

JP

If it starts and dies, but you can keep it running with your foot on the gas, look to the Idle Speed Control motor. I am not real sure as to what symptoms you are describing. Your fuel pressure seems to be ok per Ford specifications. If it will not start at all, check for spark. if there is no spark, check the crank sensor to be sure it is sending a good signal. Keep us updated.

Hello,
When you turn the key does it start and run, and when you let go of the key does it stop? That's how mine acted when the MAF sensor was frozen (sorry if I'm a bit fixated with it, maybe cause it failed about 4 years after purchasing the truck). If your vehicle has the same symptom as described above, may I suggest going to an autoparts store that has a good return policy and if it don't fix it then take it back.

Bob

It will turn over, run for about a second then die. Thats all it does. no sputtering at all, and pressing on the gas dosnt do anygood, it just dies =(

JP

Well Bob your hunch was right, I took out the MAF sensor, bought a new one, and she's running like a raiped ape again.
Glad it was the first part I bought not the 3rd or fourth etc...

Thanks again for the help guys,

JP