i need help with my truck

[brandonterrill]

my 1988 ford ranger xlt 2.9 4x4 4speed with overdrive has no problem starting up, but when running for a while, i can shut it off, then it will crank but wont start unless i let it cool off. also while it only cranks you can smell gas. any possible clues/ tests i can try also anyway i can find out why my check engine lights on withouth buying a code reader/scanner?

 

[Rico]

Are you sure all of your spark plugs are firing? Perhaps one is not and the engine detects a knock and shuts itself off. Happened to me once.

 

[brandonterrill]

wait are you saying that the spark could get messed up since the engine is hot? ( don't mind me im 16 years old and going into my junior year of auto/ diesel and all we've learned is brakes-air brakes, transmissions, air conditioning, and suspension/steering)

 

[Psychopete]

Do you have a check engine light present? Instructions for pulling codes are in the technical library (EEC-IV Diagnostics). Might seem confusing at first, but very easy once you get the jist what's going on.

Common problems of what you describe are the TFI module and engine coolant temperature sensor. Check for spark when it won't fire up. TFI is testable by auto parts store, but must be hot and in the same state for it to test bad. There is also some DIY TFI tests in the technical library (TFI-IV diagnostics). Some bad TFIs will cause no spark once hot. ECT is also testable by checking the output versus the temperature. Definitely do some diagnosis before replacing anything, these are just common problems and may not be your exact issue. First place to start would definitely be checking out what the computer is complaining about.

Pete