Intermittent stalling problem 94 Ranger

[Oldnbdup]

I have a '94 Ranger 2WD that usually starts up and runs fine, but it has been stalling sometimes at stop lights. When it starts to do that, I give it a little gas and it will sputter and backfire in the intake and most times it will recover and run fine again. This problem has been occurring more and more often and then yesterday I barely made it home. Any idea what could be the cause?

 

[tomw]

If you do not get a fast idle when cold, then the IAC may not be working properly. If so, you can remove it and try cleaning the insides using a proper cleaner. Re-assemble and see if the idle has improved. The MAP sensor if you have one can also make the idle unstable. It reads manifold vacuum and signals the computer to diddle with the fuel mix accordingly. If it goes wonky, the mix will also go wonky and get unstable. Really unstable.
tom

 

[Mark_88]

If cleaning the IAC doesn't help (there is no MAP on these) I'd suspect possible fuel filter or pump is on the way out.

But aside from all that, you should be getting codes...intake backfires are usually due to lean mix and this can be due to a number of reasons on a FI engine...so getting codes might lead you right to the problem...

Avoid throwing parts at this until you understand it better...could be an O2 sensor has failed and the computer doesn't know how much fuel...or the MAF is dirty...or...fuel pump is failing...or Fuel Pressure Regulator...or...others...

Get the codes if you can right away...

 

[RonD]

Yes, '94 uses MAF sensor and these get dirty, quick and simple cleaning will cure bogging and bucking issues.

Read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/CleanMAF.shtml