2001 Ranger will sometimes not run.

[SierraK1500]

I have a friend that has a 2001 Ranger. Some days it will start and some days it will crank and not start.

It could be 1 of 2 things. Fuel or Spark.

I thought it could be a plugged fuel filter because when it does run its fine.

Where is the fuel filter in this beast? I was going to pull the filter in a no start condition and replace it. To see if it fires. Maybe a bad fuel pump? Loose connections?

Since I am not familiar with Ford trucks (cause I am an Impala guy) I could appreciate some help and/or suggestions how to help my bud.

Thank you folks!

John

[Jmecky]

My truck 2000 ford ranger had the same problem. Every other day it would not start, the pump would only kick on half the time. I figure sediment was jamming it. You can check the pump by putting the key in then putting it onto the on position, not the start position. Once in the on position you should hear the pump kick on. You need to be in a quite place. I replaced the fuel pump and make sure you change the fuel strainer, otherwise warranty on new fuel pump is void. The fuel pump is in the fuel tank, which means you got to remove the fuel tank. Do it on an empty tank and u will thank yourself.

Good luck

[toddler62]

The fuel filter is on the drivers side on the inside of the frame , You need to find some one with a fuel gauge and check the pressure. only way to prove a fuel problem. if it is the fuel pump take it from a guy who has done it both ways. Take the bed off the truck instead of trying to drop the tank