1987 Ford Ranger shuts off when idle or I let gas go

[oscararce]

I don't normally work on cars, although I have replaced brakes and an alternator before, so please bear with me as I explain my problem.

My truck, 87 Ranger(89k miles), has been running fine with no problems whatsoever since I got, doesn't leak, doesn't heat up, works just fine, I've had it over 2 years and granted I don't use it often.

Problem started a couple weeks ago, the car turns on fine and runs fine until I let go of the gas, it will shut off completely. Someone told me it might be the alternator, and told me to turn the truck on and disconnect the battery to see if it runs without the battery, tried that and it does run without the battery. It actually stays on when im not moving and idle, it only turns off when im driving and i let go of gas or in neutral and release clutch(like at a stop light).
I checked a couple places online and read that I should change the spark plugs and clean the idle air control valve (idler control valve).

I've been trying to locate these parts on my Ranger with no luck, is there anywhere or anyone that has a picture of where these parts are, on a 87 Ranger, or if the problem might be something else? I'd really appreciate any help.

Normally I'd take the car in to get serviced, as some of you might say, but I've been out of work for a year now, and that's not an option at this time. I hope someone has some good news for me. Thank you very much.

P.S. I think my engine is either a 2.0 or a 2.3, but I'm not sure as all the writing in the engine has been removed or worn off, also I'm not sure if it's SoHC(as I saw on some websites)
P.S.S. No check engine light comes on.

 

[steve63]

your engine is probably a 2.3,changing the plugs are prolly a good idea,along with IAC,also check for a vacum leak around the IAC,my 88 ranger had the same problem.