Head Gasket?

[1987rangerxlt]

I changed my antifreeze a year or so ago as part of regular maintenance and guess I didn't put enough in because the thermostat didn't open and the block never got filled. Whoops! Next thing you know, the car was stalled on the side of the road and just cranked but would not start.

Isn't the head gasket the most likely reason? I've replaced parts with no luck and am picking up a head gasket today. What else could it be?

 

[black_demon69]

more info please. engine, year, etc....

 

[RonD]

By the name I assume '87 Ranger.

By the singular use of head gasket I assume 4cyl engine.

And no, most common reason would be timing belt slipping or breaking.
Or CPK(crank position) sensor or wire failing
Or fuel pump is not working
Any will cause engine to die and a no start

Failed head gasket will cause overheating and worst case a hydro-lock where engine won't turn at all.
But it won't cause a no start.

Get some starting fluid(ether in a spray can) and spray some into the intake, then crank engine, if it fires then dies FUEL delivery is your problem, could be fuel pump or fuse.
If it doesn't fire at all then Spark is the issue
If it back fires out the intake then timing belt issue

 

[1987rangerxlt]

I hope you're right, I didn't want to do a head gasket.

It's a 2.9L XLT 6-cylinder.