2.9 lifter ticking.Identifying which one

[wingzam]

I've got a running problem with this 87 Ranger.The engine surges or hesitates at idle and when I get it on the road it runs fairly smooth up till 2000 rpm,at which point it starts bucking.For lack of a better description it is more like a soft bucking... I have a lifter ticking.Adjusted the valves per manual instructions 1 1/2 turns down.Still ticking.Could this lifter be causing my problem? If so I can't identify it's location from outside.When I disassemble the top end how can I check the lifters to determine the bad one.
Any other suggestions for things to do or check at this point would be appreciated.Thanks

 

[IMenriched]

I've got a running problem with this 87 Ranger.The engine surges or hesitates at idle and when I get it on the road it runs fairly smooth up till 2000 rpm,at which point it starts bucking.For lack of a better description it is more like a soft bucking... I have a lifter ticking.Adjusted the valves per manual instructions 1 1/2 turns down.Still ticking.Could this lifter be causing my problem? If so I can't identify it's location from outside.When I disassemble the top end how can I check the lifters to determine the bad one.
Any other suggestions for things to do or check at this point would be appreciated.Thanks

the idle and surging maybe the AIC valve being the culprit.

best to get the codes, as it could be other things too.

 

[wingzam]

It's a new IAC valve,getting no codes from the reader...

 

[IMenriched]

how is the base timing??

check for vacuum leaks and clean and check battery cables & harness connections and grounds

 

[Area 52]

Bucking starts at 2000 rpm?: fuel supply issue - filter or pump

 

[wingzam]

Base timing set (disconnected Spout,set at 10 BTDC) and have done the best I can checking the wiring.Filters are good...in-tank pump is good,for everything i've done I haven't checked the fuel pressure! Will do that today and post results.Thanks for reminder!

 

[Cyberbeer]

Sounds like what my truck was doing. Turned out my fuel canister (used to be a filter canister) was leaking, in addition someone shoved a filter into god knows how long ago. I wouldnt recommend taking it apart as its almost impossible to put it back together and it not leak. If you insist goto a Ford dealership find a competent parts guy who can order one for you.