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Could this be a TP Sensor issue I am having


88 XLT Ranger

Well-Known Member
Joined
Jul 23, 2010
Messages
357
Age
63
City
Pollock Pines Ca
Vehicle Year
1988
Transmission
Automatic
Ignition Control Module help

TRS Guy's need help

My truck is a 1988 2.9l the truck runs great on the freeway up a 5 mile grade. I run it at 65 mph as the freeway levels out as soon as I step off the gas and back on at 65 mph its starts popping loss of power. It seams to do it after letting off the throttle on the freeway and stopping after taking the off ramp. It stays popping no power until I shut it off let it sit 4 hours. I changed the spark plugs today a long shot it didn't help. My issue could it be the TP Sensor it controls the fuel? its popping missing. I am real worried getting stuck out in no mans land with this issue
 
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TPS doesn't set fuel level, on '88 2.9l the MAP sensor tells the computer the engine load and computer calculates fuel mix from that.

TPS is like the accelerator pump on a carb, when cruising along it doesn't do much, but when you press down on the gas pedal the TPS gives the computer a "Heads up" faster than the MAP sensor can, and computer will add an extra squirt of fuel until MAP sensor can catch up.
So hesitation on acceleration could be TPS issue

TPS can get dead spots, worn spot so computer thinks you took you foot off the gas when you didn't, that can cause jerkiness, but just at that one throttle position.

Could be MAP sensor but I think you would have more issues since it is the main air/fuel mix sensor.
It is often found on the firewall, has a vacuum hose and a wires attached, not very big.
These rarely have problems, but rarely isn't never :)

Best guess would be TFI module not backing off the spark advance or distributor's centrifugal advance sticking
 
Yes...what RonD says about the TFI...I was just out looking for the link and got ninja'd...but as long as you have the right direction to take...

I had a MAP sensor go wonky on my Tempo and the symptoms were similar...but the main one was wild fluctuations in the RPM's...and dying at highway speed...I'd say the TFI in this case...but you can also maybe try pulling the codes to make sure nothing else is out of whack.

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/TFI_Diagnostic.shtml
 
Yes...what RonD says about the TFI...I was just out looking for the link and got ninja'd...but as long as you have the right direction to take...

I had a MAP sensor go wonky on my Tempo and the symptoms were similar...but the main one was wild fluctuations in the RPM's...and dying at highway speed...I'd say the TFI in this case...but you can also maybe try pulling the codes to make sure nothing else is out of whack.

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/TFI_Diagnostic.shtml


Thank you Ron & Mark

The TFI module in the distributor? I had issues with it back in 2002 it wouldn't start it would pop and backfire. My late dad changed it we couldn't get the distributor out it was stuck he turned it enough to remove it. I have a Napa & Orallys auto parts what is the best place to get a module?
 
Couldn't tell you since I don't have either in my area...but I would recommend making it a remote location like the document in the link...it will save you problems down the road from the heat and it is a well documented (known) issue...

I usually got spares from the junkyard and tested them by installing to make sure nothing weird happened...but they are not that expensive (if you have a job...lol) and you probably don't have a lot of time to go running around junkyards right now...

I would say call them both and get a price...availability...and go with the one that is easiest for you...and their return policy or warranty if possible...in case they are not working right out of the box...which happens more than we'd like to see.
 
TFI module is on the side of the distributor.

I would rather see you spend $20-$25 on the Volt/OHM meter, and test the TFI system.

Use the link Mark_88 posted.
print off the TFI Work sheet and follow it

Could simply be a loose wire, they are 28 years old
 
TFI module is on the side of the distributor.

I would rather see you spend $20-$25 on the Volt/OHM meter, and test the TFI system.

Use the link Mark_88 posted.
print off the TFI Work sheet and follow it

Could simply be a loose wire, they are 28 years old


Thank you Ron & Mark

I appreciate all your help and info on this issue I will see if I can figure this out. I need to check all wiring from the TFI module and I think I got a code reader in the shop check that as well. This TRS forum is so much help with great guy's as you both. I would be lost without it thanks again
 
Ignition Control Module question

I am going to replace it


I have Orally Auto Parts here in town they have in stock Master Pro module $39.99 with lifetime warranty or I can order a Motorcraft Module for $53.99 with two year warranty. I am not sure about Master Pro I hate to be changing this module over and over. I herd not to use the white grease that comes with them use the silver but I forgot what brand it was?
 
Don't just replace things; test them first. Otherwise you're just guessing with your wallet.
 

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