99 Ranger won't idle when it gets wet or cold

[woodman1]

Howdy. I purchased a 99 ranger 4 cylinder for my son this past summer that has around 130 k miles on it. It has its various issues but one that is popping up more frequently now that the cold weather is here is that at initial startup the engine won't idle by itself. If i keep my foot on the gas it will run and eventually it will idle after 10 or 15 minutes of running. It did this a few times in the summer after a rain but now that its getting cold it has started to do it every morning. Has anyone ever seen anything like this???

 

[Earl43P]

First, try priming the fuel system before the first start.
Turn key to Run, listen for the fuel pump to run for 2 sec, turn key to Off, repeat 3X, THEN crank it over and start it. Sometimes the fuel pressure bleeds off, seeping fuel filter connections, stuck injector(s), etc.

Next, clean the IAC, it controls air for idle (and they gum up). Use any solvent, carb spray, etc.

Next, with 130k miles, it may be running the original plugs and plug wires. At least pull the easier spark plugs and check their condition. Go from there.

Chances are, if those are original plugs and wires, the TIMING belt is probably original too. Might think about replacing that before it strands you. I figure if they neglected the plugs, they surely didn't replace that belt.


Welcome to The Ranger Station!

 

[woodman1]

I will give it a try in the morning. i think they are the original plugs and wires. I was just looking at them the other day thinking i should replace them and then i see that there are 8 of them and half look to be pretty buried!!!! Do you have any tips or tricks to make replacing them any easier? Thanks for quick reply

 

[87xlranger]

Check the Distributor cap as well for any cracks if the distributor gets condensation on the inside of it (because it's cracked) it will cause the same cold start issue.