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My 1988 Ford Ranger has an engine problem! It''s a 2.9 V6. It suddenly started to run very rough and I just made it home, a half a block away! I shut it off, and then restarted it, but it cranked roughly, started and ran very rough! Can you help?
Optional Information: 1988 Ford ranger 2.9 v6Already Tried: I did some small repairs and fixes unrelated to the existing problem
Hello
Welcome to JA
Up to it started running bad what were the repairs?
Hart
I did'nt pursue the initial problem! I guessed it might be the EEC or the distributor module. I don't have the proper test equipment, so I ignored the problem, and while the truck would'nt run, I decided to pull the valve covers and the intake manifold, as there were oil leaks at the gaskets. I replaced all as regular maintenance that needed to be done. I found that the distributor cap and rotor were worn, so I replaced them! I checked all systems and attempted to start it again, but it did the same hard cranking as before I worked on the top end! It would not start. I don't think there's any problems like a dropped valve or bad piston rings, as the oil looked ok and the coolant was ok too! Does this help?
HI
Yes thanks for the info
I would start with the basics and go from there.
check the timing, see if the chain jumped time with the distributer
plugs , plug wires, fuel filter, vacuum lines
also if you have , or can get a hold of a compreshon tester,
might have a burnt valve .
if were all good there ,
then check your wiring from the battery dirty wiring can give you gremlins too
If your not cert ion about something go to a parts store and pick up a repair manual for your truck, then you will have all the specs and photos of parts to help you,
Let me know if i can help you more!
Experience: MASTER ASE 30 YEARS
I've got the ranger running again, after installing a new water pump, fuel filter, and changed the oil and filter. When I started it up after getting it all checked out and back together, it started leaking serious oil in a dripping stream down the rear top of the engine! I still had it up on ramps so got under while it was running and with the help of a probe light looked over everthing, but could'nt see where the oil was coming from! It did'nt leak like that before, only the valve cover and pan gaskets were seaping. I replaced both valve cover gaskets when I first did the top end work. Can you tell me what this problem could be? I am hoping it's not a crack in the head or block! Tnaks for any info....C Ackerman