Engines runs on starting fluid, not getting fuel

[hatinmyranger]

Hi everyone! I need help!

My Ranger runs great on starting fluid but will not run on its own. I think it either has really bad fuel from sitting for many years or the injectors are not working for some reason. It has a fresh fuel filter, newer fuel pump (that is working) and pressure at the rail. Any diagnostic tips would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Shran]

Do you have adequate fuel pressure at the rail - as in did you measure with a gauge?

If so I would suspect that your injectors are clogged with old fuel residue or aren't firing at all. Pull the wire connector off one, attach a test light and crank the engine over. The light should flash rapidly. If it does, then replace the injectors. If not, check your grounds, relays and fuses.

 

[RonD]

Sure reads like that, injectors not opening.
Crank engine then pull out one spark plug, see if it is wet with fuel.

Fuel injectors get 12volt power when key is turned on, this is from the EEC Relay, fuel pump relay is also powered by EEC relay, so if EEC relay was the problem fuel pump wouldn't come on.
Test the red wire on an injector and see if it has 12volts, key on.

 

[hatinmyranger]

thanks for the replies!
I did not test with a gauge. I don't have one and the rental one didn't have the correct connectors to connect it. We did press the valve on the fuel rail and it shot up and sprayed the hood. I can't smell any fuel at all and normally can when it cranks and doesn't start right away. The fuel pump is cycling when the key is turned on. I will test for power at the injector. If there is power, is it safe to assume they are clogged?

 

[adsm08]

If you use a test light with an incandescent bulb it won't flash rapidly, it will glow.

And yes, if the light responds properly the next step is to clean or replace the injectors.