'92 Ranger 3.0 with very rough idle problem

[redranger1]

My high mileage fuel injected Ranger suddenly began idling roughly two days after I changed the plugs, wires, and filters. It also is making kind of a "whining/whirring" type noise which is coming from around the distributor area. I triple checked the plugs and wires to make sure they were installed and ordered correctly, but I am still getting the rough idle and the noise from the distributor area. It was running like new for two days after I did the tuneup. It seems to run OK on the highway and the check engine light occasionally goes on and off. Anyone think it's a distributor problem? An IAC problem? Many thanks in advance.

[DonSor]

I don't know if it applies to your year truck but my OBD II states that although a steady lit Check Engine Light (CEL) indicates a problem, it is not critical in that you may continue driving until the problem can be taken care of. However, a flashing CEL indicates a more serious problem and for the operator to safely but quickly come to a stop.

If you have an ignition problem you are going to know it. When I had the noise (more like loud humming during idle) similar to what you described, I replaced the Idle Control Valve and it corrected it.

[redranger1]

Originally Posted by DonSor

I don't know if it applies to your year truck but my OBD II states that although a steady lit Check Engine Light (CEL) indicates a problem, it is not critical in that you may continue driving until the problem can be taken care of. However, a flashing CEL indicates a more serious problem and for the operator to safely but quickly come to a stop.

If you have an ignition problem you are going to know it. When I had the noise (more like loud humming during idle) similar to what you described, I replaced the Idle Control Valve and it corrected it.

Thanks for your help. I'll look into the IAC valve.

[butch h]

With the engine running, and your hand on the distributer, can you feel anything that seems like the noise source? Like the cap not seating well,or a bad bearing?