Tough start, runs rich

[86rangerguy]

Hey everyone, I have an 86 Ranger 2.9L and it is difficult to start, I have to shoot it with starter fluid to get it to start most of the time. But occasionally it will start up with out the use of the fluid? Also once it gets started it runs extremely rich. Like turns the cement black where the exhaust dumps out rich. It pops out the exhaust when driving. I got this truck from my neighbor and he said that the truck ran great (I have also witnessed this), then the starter burnt up and he replaced it and now it runs like this. Any ideas on what might be causing this would be extremely helpful! Thanks in advanced!

 

[robertc1024]

1. Pull codes - see if there is anything obvious.
2. Check out the fuel pressure regulator. If you have gas odors, it's bad.
3. Check the engine coolant temp sensor.
4. Check your grounds - particularly from the passenger side head to the firewall. Orange wire.

 

[modelageek]

like robert said pull the vacuum line off the fuel pressure regulator and seee if there is gas in it the regulator should be on the fuel rail

 

[86rangerguy]

Thanks for the replies,

Robert, if I am looking in the correct place, i do not think i have a ground wire from the passenger side head to the firewall. I'm just looking for a orange wire running from the head to the firewall correct?

 

[Big Jim M]

You are looking for any sort of wire that ends under a bolt on the engine and the other end is against the firewall under another bolt. GROUNDS simply tie all the metaql parts of the vehicle together. Many times they are a simple WEBBED steel with no covering.
Big JIm

 

[jhammel85]

Definitely check those grounds. Thats hopefully all it is...

If not, Hows the timing? I'd pull the spout and make sure thats OK.

 

[86rangerguy]

There is a webbed ground on the drivers side, it is not currently connected to the block. I will put that on tomorrow, and cross my fingers. I just wasn't sure if there were multiple grounds running off of the motor or not. Thanks for the responses.