2.3L ('83-'97) 1995 Ranger 2.3 manual trans fuel pressure question.

[Bob Wagner]

Thanks for allowing me to join the group. My Ranger starts and idles great. However after about 2-3 minutes of driving the engine bogs down and the more I push the accelerator the worse it gets. I did a compression test which was well into the green all 4 cylinders, replaced the spark plugs, both coil packs, engine coolant temp sensor, throttle position sensor, egr sensor, maf sensor. No help. I tested the fuel pressure which reads 40-45 psi,and when I pull the vacuum hose from the fuel pressure regulator pressure rises to about 50 psi. I rigged the pressure gauge so I could read while driving. When the engine runs well pressure is 40-45. When the engine bogs down when accelerating pressure drops to 10-15 psi. The more I push the accelerator the lower the pressure goes but never enough to stall the engine. Two questions: Is The pressure drop abnormal? And if so any suggestions as to the cause? Thx in advance for any suggestions .

 

[Uncle Gump]

It's not normal... at least that much. Under heavy load... the rail pressure should actually increase with the absence of manifold vacuum at the regulator. Which it seems to do when you're testing it at idle. Which it should probably increase more then 5 psi.

Sounds to me like a fuel delivery issue... weak pump... plugged fuel filter/in-tank sock... line restriction.

 

[Bob Wagner]

Uncle Gump
Thanks so much for the direction. I bought the truck as a project to give to my grandson. Previous owner died then it sat for a few years. It's a great truck and this is the last problem ...for now. I previously changed the fuel filter. The seller told me he changed the fuel pump...which after your reply I'm beginning to question. So you think I've ruled out the fuel pressure regulator as the problem? Thx again,

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

New doesnt mean good...
Not anymore.