Bad MPGs and difficult starting. SOHC 4x4

[Dezert Runner]

Right now Im only getting 13.5 mpg out of my Ranger.

SOHC4.0 4x4 5-speed. 305/70/16s. Im not 100% sure what gears I have but I can do 80 on the fwy at 3k-3200 rpm.

Before it was idling a little rough and when the A/C kicked on at idle the truck would nearly die. I replaced the fuel filter and used some fuel system cleaner but my mpgs got just slightly better.

Suggestions?

On the hard start...

My truck sometimes will crank for a while and not want to start if it has been sitting for, lets say, more than an hour or two. When it does start it sometimes stumbles for a couple seconds then idles ok.

If I cycle the key 2 or 3 times it will fire right away usually.

What should I be looking for? Fuel pressure? dirty injectors (ran that system cleaner) starter?

Brand new Red Top, new fuel filter.

 

[Chris.S.]

Doesn't sound like you're that far off what the mileage should be with larger than stock tires.

I get about 14.5 outta my 4.0 5 speed with 265/75/16's so 13.5 with 305/70's sounds possible....

As for the hard starts, sounds like maybe your fuel pump is on it's way out?

 

[Dezert Runner]

That was one of my theories since cycling the key helps it start better.

Cycling it also cycles the fuel pump and builds more pressure in the line.

 

[gw33gp]

Also, take a look for vacuum leaks. One area that seems to be weak in the 4.0 SOHC engine is the PCV elbow near the front of the throttle body on the passenger side. It deteriorates, get soft and cracks resulting in a vacuum leak. You can find it under the top radiator hose.

I had this problem and it took me a long time to find the source.

 

[Jspafford]

Also, take a look for vacuum leaks. One area that seems to be weak in the 4.0 SOHC engine is the PCV elbow near the front of the throttle body on the passenger side. It deteriorates, get soft and cracks resulting in a vacuum leak. You can find it under the top radiator hose.

I had this problem and it took me a long time to find the source.

I've heard about this before, any pics of the exact elbow? I am chasing a problem of my own.

 

[gw33gp]

Here is a picture with the upper radiator hose moved out of the way. The PCV elbow is the one with the silicone globbed on it and is under a smaller 90 degree hose. That was my temporary repair until I located a replacement elbow.

 

[Dezert Runner]

That has been replaced already.

 

[ChesterSPL]

Sounds like you are loosing fuel pressure while it sits. Cycling the key kicks the pump on and off and pulls fuel back to the engine. Gas milage sounds about right, maybe a little low but close.