any suggestions?

[bazooka_joe]

I have an 85 Ranger with a 2.3L. The other day I was driving on the freeway while it was raining and then the engine started slowing down and then stalled. I tried to start it up again but it wouldn't. One time there was a loud pop that sounded like it came from the passenger side under the cab. A few times when I tried starting it, it caught for a short while but stalled again. Any idea what it might be? Oh, and after a while, the key now doesn't turn to the start position. It turns to on but no farther. Thanks for your time

 

[sniper141]

Ignition coil may have gone out or maybe even the fuel pump, similar thing happened to me.

 

[Mark_88]

Hmmm...loud pop and gradual slow down to a stop could be the timing belt, but if the engine started after this, even briefly, then I'd say it's probably your distributor...

The loud pop could have been unignited gas (due to no spark) accumulating in the exhaust system and then igniging from the heat of the cat or pipe...but this usually is much more like an explosion that rips the muffler off (as did mine when the distributor was not working properly)...

But the engine won't start at all if the distributor is totally baffed, so it could be that your timing belt slipped a tooth with similar results to the above situation...not firing properly or running properly....

So...to make a long story longer...check the timing and the timing belt...

 

[bazooka_joe]

we looked at it last night and checked the ignition coil and its reading the correct ohms and so my dad said maybe its the ignition control module so i am going to take that in to see if anyone can test it. the timing belt is still in place and tight so i dont see how it would've slipped a tooth