1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

I have a 1997 Ford Ranger 2.3 5 speed. I just bought the truck, it is in great shape. The problem started when I filled the tank and the next morning it would not start. I changed the fuel filter and it started. (the filter was old) I ran it for three days and did not have a problem. I fueled it again and again it would not start, changed the filter again and it started. Went out the next morning and it would not start. (did not fuel up this time) went to work and got home figured I would try it any way and sure enough it started. (would not start in am, did nothing and it started in the afternoon) I am at a loss. Any help would be great.

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

It may be the fuel pump relay going bad.Try to swap it with the a/c relay in the power distrubition box by the wheel well to see if the problem go's away.If not do you know how to check it for spark or gas?

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

It does not have a/c, but I will check the relay. I have checked for spark which is strong, I have infact replaced the wires and plugs as a routine to start fresh.

Thank you for the reply.

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

I'm thinking the fuel pump relay too. Not sure though.

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

Well I would replace the relay any way. If still no gas then it is the pump.

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

Try checking the fuel pump. The fuel pump may be going bad on it.

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

so what ever happened with this one? I'm having trouble with my 95 explorer. Sometimes starts on the first crank, sometimes just keeps turning over but not starting. Plugs and wires were replaced, battery terminals and wires just cleaned, de-corroded, and such, like new...air filter clean...

but I did play around with the two sensors (MAF) and another one that was like a tiny orange q-tip...that were inside the air intake funnel housing on the way to the throttle body (I think that's what it's called).

Any ideas? Ignition wiring? Nah... Power steering has also been a bit sluggish lately, and also it almost stalls about 1/10 times when coming to a stop with the brakes engaged....could the P/S pump be going bad (it's got plenty of fluid)

Thanks,
Greg
sinking Spring, PA:)

RE: 1997 Ford Ranger starting problem
 

Redskin 13 Try this.[hr]This is a common problem.[hr] It may be the fuel pump relay going bad.[hr]Try to swap it with the a/c relay in the power distrubition box by the wheel well to see if the problem go's away.