2.5L ('98-'01) 2.5 Ranger Crank no Start

[Theunknownstep123]

Hello, I’ve got a 99 2.5 manual ranger xlt with 170k miles. I’m currently having a no start issue with the truck and I am thinking it is the PCM. It cranks over but has not started. I have recently obtained this truck, it has not run in 5+ years.

I have done the following testing:
-Confirmed timing belt and marks line up
-Receiving spark
-I am getting fuel pressure/pump is working
-Replaced relays
-Checked all of the fuses under hood and in cab
-Looked over all grounds
-Confirmed getting 12v+ at battery
-Checked Inertia switch
-Drained all bad gas and put fresh gas in tank and confirmed it has made it up to fuel rail
-Sprayed starting fluid and tried cranking, does not start. Putters a bit more than regular crank no start but wouldn’t call it close to running.
-When key in and on position there is no check engine light lighting up, all other dash lights are on
Am I missing other tests I should try? I think I’ve listed everything I’ve done. Any advice before ordering a new computer would be appreciated. Luckily it’s a no security key and plug and play.

 

[Brain75]

These vehicles need 3 things fuel/fire/air - you master all 3 of those and it runs... Computer only locks out fuel or spark, turns off starter or or.... the newer the worse at it's interference.


Cleanout the airbox - check for mouse nest, etc completely clogging off air and cover the 1% issue.

Since it doesn't fire with starting fluid (be careful with that to add it AFTER the MAF so you don't ruin it), I'd say you got a spark issue.

I don't think the computer shuts of spark in the 4 bangers for your year (PATS - anti-theft).... do you have a theft icon on the dash?
(only the V6 got PATS to start with, so very sure you don't but just check)

I'd start with this:

spark tester.

Be nice if we knew why it was parked - hard to keep running or catastrophic quit on the last guy, engine swap that wasn't finished.... If it was catastrophic, might be all kinds of stuff.. no chance of getting that info?