1985 2.3L failing emissions test in Texas...Help!!!

[ggrant5150]

Hi all, I have a 1985 Ranger 2.3L that is failing emissions testing. It passes the high speed test but fails the low speed test on Hydrocarbon and Carbon monoxide. The CO is just barely out but the HC is more than double the limit.

When the engine is cold and I start it, it idles normally for about a minute or two and then starts this erratic idling faster and slower and sometimes even dies. I also smell gas and see black drops of liquid coming from the tail pipe. From what I have read, I am wondering if this is the computer switching from open loop to closed loop and having a problem with some sensor after the switch to closed loop. Is this possible? If it is, what sensor or sensors could be to blame?

I have 15 days to retest and I need some suggestions of where to look. I plan to change the plugs and check the vacuum hose routing and timing but the emissions label is missing from the radiator mount. I think I can order a new label from the Ford house but if anyone has a picture of one I would appreciate it.

Thanks!

 

[Mark_88]

Is your truck carbed or fuel injected?

The gas smell would probably be poor burning at idle and if you could let us know if it's FI or not it might be a better way to start...the carbed versions don't really have much of a computer so it may require other adjustments with the carb or even a new cat...

 

[ggrant5150]

It is fuel injected. I got a code reader and pulled the codes. In the engine off test I get 11 (pass) for current codes and 183 for memory codes. Code 183 is "Fuel System at rich adaptive limit at idle/system lean."

For the engine on test I get 11 (pass) for current codes and 32 and 77 for memory codes. 77 is because I did not do the wide open throttle test. 32 is "EGR pressure feedback fault (85-89 models)." I wonder if the EGR valve or EGR sensor is bad? Is there some way to test it? It would be about 100 bucks for both parts and I don't want to waste the money if I'm not sure.

Thanks!

 

[Kenneth S]

I would think the egr valve is stuck, it should take a little effort to open it, if it's stuck you can try to free it up by trying to work it open, and or soaking just the valve part not the vacuum diaphram that operates it in some wd-40, if you get it freed up clean the wd-40 off of the egr valve with a spray throttle body cleaner before reinstalling.