Ranger running at low idle

[ander1]

My 1998 ranger xlt 4.0 auto with 60k is running at low idle when at normal operating temperatures. When it happened, i had been driving for about an hour then i went to pick up my daughter. shut the engine off and then tried to start it. the truck wouldnt start unless i gave it gas. when started, the truck would run really low rpm's at stop signs. i got home and let the truck cool down and gave it another shot and started fine. i have driven it since and it always takes 2 shots to start the engine. havent drivin it far enough to see if it does it again... p.s. the engine light has not come on at all. any answers?

 

[ander1]

would a new pump relay help?

 

[Earl43P]

Idle problems are often the IAC.
Two 8mm bolts hold it onto the intake manifold.
Remove it and clean it out with some carb/choke cleaner.
Might hit that shaft inside with a rifle cleaning bore brush, that's what I usually use.


The hard to start problem could be the IAC.
Or, it could be that the fuel pressure is dropping off after you shut it off.
Try turning the key to Run, wait the 3 seconds while the fuel pump primes, then turn the key to OFF without cranking it over. Repeat the 3 sec prime and THEN crank it. Fuel pressure leaking down could be a number of things, stuck open injector (inspecting the spark plugs may show you which cylinder it is), bad fuel filter (replaced it lately?) or the fuel pressure regulator. I believe your year FP Regulation is done in the fuel tank (part of the fuel pump assembly) or it could be a bad check valve in the fuel pump itself.


I think you'll get a good result from cleaning the IAC.

 

[ander1]

HA cool thanks i will see what i can do.