1998 Ranger Starting Problems

[moonbeam]

When I turn the switch on I hear the fuel pump running for a few seconds. After those few seconds it shuts off. I have the filter out right now to see if it will continue to pump fuel but it doesn't. I've checked the inertia switch and it's not tripped. The relays appear to be good. Any thoughts where I should look next? TIA for any help.

 

[RonD]

Most factory electric fuel pumps only run for a few seconds with key on, it is a safety issue.
Computer will turn on fuel pump full time when engine RPMs are above 400, engine started.

If there is an accident, roll over or fuel line breaks then engine will stall, 0 RPMs, and electric pump will be shut off computer, so no fuel pumping out to feed a fire
Inertia switch can also cut power to fuel pump if it trips in a sudden stop, another safety feature

So what you see is normal for fuel injected Rangers, 2 second fuel pump run time, but EACH time you turn the key on, so you can repeat on/off as much as you need to, to get pressure in the system up.

If your starter motor is turning the engine over, then do 50/50 test
Spray gasoline or Quick Start(ether) into the intake.
Try to start engine

If it starts and then dies, fuel injectors or fuel pump is not working, or bad gasoline in the system

If it doesn't start then spark is the issue.

50/50 quick and easy