small-list-digest Wednesday, May 19 1999 Volume 03 : Number 121



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Ford Truck Enthusiasts - Ranger, Explorer, Bronco 2 and Aerostar
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In this issue:

Re: FTE Small - ELECTRONIC 4x4 PROBLEMS
RE: FTE Small - ELECTRONIC 4x4 PROBLEMS
Re: FTE Small - Bronco II engine swap
FTE Small - '86 Ranger Tranny Prob?!?!?!?
Re: FTE Small - '86 Ranger Tranny Prob?!?!?!?
FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L
Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L
RE: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L
Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L
FTE Small - Trailer Towing w/Splash Suspension
FTE Small - new baby
Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L
FTE Small - odds & ends
FTE Small - Starting noises...
FTE Small - tires
Re: FTE Small - Bronco II engine swap
Re: FTE Small - Can't find Spout
Re: FTE Small - tires

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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 08:32:26 -0400
From: "Kenneth J. Nagy"
Subject: Re: FTE Small - ELECTRONIC 4x4 PROBLEMS

Sounds like the problem I had on my '91 Explorer, only it had 85K miles when
it happened. It turned out to be the electronic transfer motor that engages
the front wheels. Had to be dealer replaced. I think it cost $200 to $300.
Hope this helps.

Ken

- ----- Original Message -----
From: Greg Fisher
To:
Sent: Monday, May 17, 1999 8:11 PM
Subject: FTE Small - ELECTRONIC 4x4 PROBLEMS


> I have a 1995 Ranger 4x4 with 3.0L engine and manual transmission. I
> recently attempted to switch on the electronic 4 wheel drive and nothing
> happened. No indicator light went on and the truck did not go into 4
wheel
> drive. The 4x4 indicator lights no longer go on when starting the engine
> either. I have checked the fuses in the cab and under the hood and can
find
> no problems there. This truck has had a variety of "check engine"
instances
> since I bought it including needing to have the charcoal cannister
replaced
> and a problem with the dome light staying on. Since those problems
happened
> while under warranty and were fixed at the dealer, I cannot say what was
> actually done. However, I have never had any problems with the 4x4 until
> now. Since the truck has only about 21,000 miles on it (mostly highway) I
> don't think wear and tear is a factor here.
>
> Anyone else have a similar problem. Since it is no longer under warranty
I
> would like to troubleshoot it myself if possible, but I suspect that I
will
> need more than the Owners Manual to trace the system. ;-)
>
> Thanks in advance for any help!
> --Greg
>
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 07:03:37 -0700
From: Ray Scheidnes
Subject: RE: FTE Small - ELECTRONIC 4x4 PROBLEMS

Try everything, like pushing in the 4x4 button with the clutch in, clutch
out, in gear, etc. One time, I almost forgot how to engage 4x4 low (94
Ranger 4x4, manual transmission). I thought something was wrong because it
wouldn't engage. Then, I checked the owner's manual and discovered that the
tranny needs to be in neutral with the clutch depressed. My dealer told me
that when the check engine indicator lights up, it's telling you that
something is wrong with a sensor (such as O2, etc...), not necessarily that
something is wrong with the engine itself. Not too much help here, I know,
but all I can say is check the owner's manual and make sure you're following
the procedure correctly when needing your 4x4 option.

> ----------
> From: Greg Fisher[SMTP:gfisher3 home.com]
> Reply To: small-list ford-trucks.com
> Sent: Monday, May 17, 1999 5:11 PM
> To: small-list ford-trucks.com
> Subject: FTE Small - ELECTRONIC 4x4 PROBLEMS
>
> I have a 1995 Ranger 4x4 with 3.0L engine and manual transmission. I
> recently attempted to switch on the electronic 4 wheel drive and nothing
> happened. No indicator light went on and the truck did not go into 4
> wheel
> drive. The 4x4 indicator lights no longer go on when starting the engine
> either. I have checked the fuses in the cab and under the hood and can
> find
> no problems there. This truck has had a variety of "check engine"
> instances
> since I bought it including needing to have the charcoal cannister
> replaced
> and a problem with the dome light staying on. Since those problems
> happened
> while under warranty and were fixed at the dealer, I cannot say what was
> actually done. However, I have never had any problems with the 4x4 until
> now. Since the truck has only about 21,000 miles on it (mostly highway) I
> don't think wear and tear is a factor here.
>
> Anyone else have a similar problem. Since it is no longer under warranty
> I
> would like to troubleshoot it myself if possible, but I suspect that I
> will
> need more than the Owners Manual to trace the system. ;-)
>
> Thanks in advance for any help!
> --Greg
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 08:14:07 -0600
From: "Larry A White"
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Bronco II engine swap

Thanks for the info, Mtbikr17.
How about the fuel pump and computer for this conversion? If possible I want
to stay emissions legal.





Mtbikr17 aol.com on 05/17/99 07:45:30 PM

Please respond to small-list ford-trucks.com


To: small-list ford-trucks.com
cc: (bcc: Larry A White/LRW/LMITCO/INEEL/US)


Subject: Re: FTE Small - Bronco II engine swap




yea the tranny and bell housing will line up as long as the 84' had a 2.8L
V-6 , and ud have to use all the brackets off the 98' motor, and ud have to
use the 89's intake, cause it should be fuel injected, anything else?
from
mtbikr17
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 08:28:54 -0600
From: "David Herron"
Subject: FTE Small - '86 Ranger Tranny Prob?!?!?!?

Hey again --

Just wanted to say thanks all for all the great input I've gotten from you
all in the past!!

Okay -- new problem

I was running down the highway in my '86 Ranger 2WD Auto (2.3L 4cyl) at
about 75 mph, when all of a sudden (without any warning, banging, sounds, or
otherwise) the engine reved up. I let off the accellerator, and when I
tried again, there was nothing. It was like I was in neutral. I rolled it
off the side of the road, and started working with the floorboard shifter.
It engages in Park, Reverse, and Neutral, but no forward gears. The tranny
was replaced 1 week before I got it (two months ago), by an individual (whom
I don't know) who was (apparently) a common transmission-replacing kinda
guy. Fluid levels are good.
So, tell me, what are the chances that it's a band, or something that
won't require a whole new transmission? What might I check (or have someone
check)? I'm going back down today to tow it back....

Thanks in advance,

--Dave

- -------------------------------------------------------
David Herron - dherron cpmc4u.com
Director of Information Systems
Colorado Plains Medical Center
- -------------------------------------------------------


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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 11:52:35 -0400
From: Dave Slotter
Subject: Re: FTE Small - '86 Ranger Tranny Prob?!?!?!?

At 8:28 AM -0600 5/18/99, David Herron wrote:
>Hey again --
>
>Just wanted to say thanks all for all the great input I've gotten from you
>all in the past!!
>
>Okay -- new problem
>
> I was running down the highway in my '86 Ranger 2WD Auto (2.3L 4cyl) at
>about 75 mph, when all of a sudden (without any warning, banging, sounds, or
>otherwise) the engine reved up. I let off the accellerator, and when I
>tried again, there was nothing. It was like I was in neutral. I rolled it
>off the side of the road, and started working with the floorboard shifter.
>It engages in Park, Reverse, and Neutral, but no forward gears. The tranny
>was replaced 1 week before I got it (two months ago), by an individual (whom
>I don't know) who was (apparently) a common transmission-replacing kinda
>guy. Fluid levels are good.
> So, tell me, what are the chances that it's a band, or something that
>won't require a whole new transmission? What might I check (or have someone
>check)? I'm going back down today to tow it back....

Dave,

This shouldn't be too hard to isolate. The engine still works, right?
From what I understand, no power is transferred to the wheels in D,
1, 2, etc., but R still works. Sounds like the tranny to me,
considering that this is 2WD only.

The easiest thing to do is to check your tranny oil level and make
sure you have the proper amount of fluid. Also smell the oil on the
dipstick. If it smells like "burnt bacon" then you have a bad tranny
and I'd recommend getting a transmission shop to look at it for you.

To further confirm the problem, make sure that the driveshaft doesn't
turn when you're in those broken gears. (Lift up the driving wheels
for this in case something decides to suddenly start working again.)
If the driveshaft turns, I'd check out the differential or halfshafts.

Btw, I'm not an experienced mechanic (still very much an amateur) so
take safety precautions and don't sue me, etc. if something goes
wrong. ;-)

Good luck.

- -Dave
- --

ICQ# 16458879 AOL/AIM ID: "Mac XR"
1986 Ford Bronco II Gray Manual 2.9 V6 123K Pittsburgh PA

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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 12:15 -0400
From: Joesph Merchak
Subject: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L

I bought a 99 Ranger XLT 4x4 supercab with a 4 speed auto. Since the warm weather, the engine pings, even when its not under any load. I have taken back to the dealer and was told nothing is wrong, but they wont explain to me why I am forced to use plus or better fuel. Has anyone seen this problem?

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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 10:01:10 -0700
From: "Alan Wilson"
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L

What does a PING sound like?

Joesph Merchak wrote:

> I bought a 99 Ranger XLT 4x4 supercab with a 4 speed auto. Since the warm weather, the engine pings, even when its not under any load. I have taken back to the dealer and was told nothing is wrong, but they wont explain to me why I am forced to use plus or better fuel. Has anyone seen this problem?
>
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- --
Alan Wilson - Wilshire Associates, (310) 451-3051 x3750
(310) 260-7350 Direct
(310) 458-2842 FAX


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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 10:35:56 -0700
From: Ray Scheidnes
Subject: RE: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L

Occassionally, my '94 Ranger supercab 4x4 (manual tranny, 4.0) will
ping/knock as well. My dealer has told me that a little noise is normal.
There is supposedly a knock sensor somewhere in the motor, which is supposed
to react to knocking and adjust mixtures or whatever, accordingly. I live
in southern California, and my dealer also told me that our gas is hardly
that. Apparently, there are more chemical additives than anything else in
the mixture, and they told me that this has something to do with the
occassional knock that I get. I don't get it often, but when I do, I think
it's usually going up a hill in high gear on a hot, dry day. I lay off the
gas pedal at that point and downshift if necessary, because when you hear
pinging, my understanding is that the fuel-air mixture is violently
exploding instead of smoothly combusting (there's supposed to be a
difference) within the cyliders - and this is not good for the motor. It
was also explained that the gas refineries have different gas brews,
depending on the season, and this may cause your computer and motor to try
to adjust to those changes. Buying the more expensive gas will not always
solve the problem, and, sometimes you may have just gotten a "bad" tank of
gas. If the problem is continuous or more serious, then you may have a
bigger problem... then again, your dealer could also be right - maybe
there's nothing really "wrong" with your motor.
> ----------
> From: Joesph Merchak[SMTP:jmerchak eclipse.net]
> Reply To: small-list ford-trucks.com
> Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 1999 9:15 AM
> To: small-list ford-trucks.com
> Subject: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L
>
> I bought a 99 Ranger XLT 4x4 supercab with a 4 speed auto. Since the warm
> weather, the engine pings, even when its not under any load. I have taken
> back to the dealer and was told nothing is wrong, but they wont explain to
> me why I am forced to use plus or better fuel. Has anyone seen this
> problem?
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 14:07:31 -0400
From: "Kenneth J. Nagy"
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L

I think the "ping" sound is caused by the valves rattling against their
seats in the cylinder head, because of the absence of lead (for
lubrication) in today's fuel.

Even though I've heard this plenty from my '66 GTO's 389ci/335hp engine, it
is hard to describe; sort of an uneven, metallic, popping sound that will
increase with rpm? Oh well, I tried my best. Hope this helps.

Ken

( ----- Original Message -----
From: Alan Wilson
To:
Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 1999 1:01 PM
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L


> What does a PING sound like?
>
> Joesph Merchak wrote:
>
> > I bought a 99 Ranger XLT 4x4 supercab with a 4 speed auto. Since the
warm weather, the engine pings, even when its not under any load. I have
taken back to the dealer and was told nothing is wrong, but they wont
explain to me why I am forced to use plus or better fuel. Has anyone seen
this problem?
> >
> > == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
> --
> Alan Wilson - Wilshire Associates, (310) 451-3051 x3750
> (310) 260-7350 Direct
> (310) 458-2842 FAX
>
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 11:08:05 -0700
From: Brian Pynn
Subject: FTE Small - Trailer Towing w/Splash Suspension

I have a 1997 Ranger S/C 4x2, manual tranny, 3.0L engine, Rebel Youth
package. According to the owner's manual...this set up can tow 3700 pounds
with the regular body style...but only 2000 pounds with the Splash or Rebel
Youth models. Two questions--how can body style and suspension make that
much of a difference, and how much leeway do these suggested maximums really
give you (i.e. If I wanted to tow 2100 pounds, am I really breaking the
camel's back)?

Any input would be appreciated. I just bought a tent trailer that weighs in
at 1800 pounds...but I suppose with all my gear etc, it could top 2100
pounds.
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 19:54:07 -0400
From: "Stephen Bozzone"
Subject: FTE Small - new baby

I'm now the proud owner of a 1988 Bronco II Eddie Bauer 4x4.

Thanks for all your suggestions.. I think this was a good purchase. I'm
getting it registered this week, can't wait to get this baby on the road.

I'll be filling you with questions from the most obvious to the bizzarre..
so be prepared!

Thanks for all the insight so far,

Steve Bozzone
Administrative Director - http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://rockzone.com
ICQ: 196843 || AIM: RudeSkam69
-- "I see now mankind was not meant to last." [Hatebreed] --

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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 20:25:59 -0400
From: "Joe Merchak"
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L

Its spark knock and its anoning as hell
- ----- Original Message -----
From: Alan Wilson
To:
Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 1999 1:01 PM
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Pinging on a 3.0L


> What does a PING sound like?
>
> Joesph Merchak wrote:
>
> > I bought a 99 Ranger XLT 4x4 supercab with a 4 speed auto. Since the
warm weather, the engine pings, even when its not under any load. I have
taken back to the dealer and was told nothing is wrong, but they wont
explain to me why I am forced to use plus or better fuel. Has anyone seen
this problem?
> >
> > == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
> --
> Alan Wilson - Wilshire Associates, (310) 451-3051 x3750
> (310) 260-7350 Direct
> (310) 458-2842 FAX
>
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>

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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 20:46:43 -0400
From: "Stephen Bozzone"
Subject: FTE Small - odds & ends

here's a few questions.

1. I have an auto transmission. When i first move into drive, the car
doesn't react for a few seconds, jerks forward, and then it's good to go.
Is this a bad thing? I don't mind it, but is it a sign of problems down the
road?

2. what service manual should i purchase (what's the best one?)

3. what treatment do you suggest i use for rust on the outside and inside?
I'd prefer to treat the rust without making the visual appearance any worse
(if that's possible). I don't want a big gray splotch where my rust is, but
i also don't want my car to fall apart. There isn't a lot of rust but there
are little ones here in there.. just a 6 inch rectangular section by the
rear wheel where the car scraped against a wall.

4. as a misc. I removed a few stickers from the back, and the ones that
came off the glass were a challenge but they eventually came off. However,
the ones that were on the paint (on the hatch) left a sticky residue that
doesn't seem to be coming off after scrubbing. Now what? is there a trick
for this that won't ruin the finish?

that's all on my mind at the moment.. thanks!

Steve Bozzone
Administrative Director - http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://rockzone.com
ICQ: 196843 || AIM: RudeSkam69
-- "I see now mankind was not meant to last." [Hatebreed] --



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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 21:43:16 EDT
From: Pol586 aol.com
Subject: FTE Small - Starting noises...

Problem:

I have a '89 Bronco II with 170K+ miles on it. Today while trying to start
it, I got nothing but the awful sound of the starter grinding on the
flywheel, much like when you try to turn the ignition while the engine is
still running. Yikes! I tried it about six or seven times, pausing every
now and then to see if it would clear itself up. It did after about a minute
or so and I was able to start the car and proceed on my way, but believe me
it was waaay too many times for me. This is starting to be a more common
occurrence, so I am somewhat worried.

What sort of damage was possibly done to the flywheel, starter, etc. and what
should be my next course of action (overhaul, starter replace, etc)?

Thanks!
Pol586 aol.com
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 20:54:14 CDT
From: "travis swinny"
Subject: FTE Small - tires

I've got a question for anyone.I would like to know the biggest tire size
that i can fit on a 84 ranger without using a lift kit? Any help at all
would be greatly appreciated.

Travis Swinford



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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 22:39:19 -0400
From: Tim Turner
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Bronco II engine swap

Larry A White wrote:
>
> I'd like to put an '89 Bronco II v-6 in my '84 5-speed model. Will that engine
> bolt up to my trans/bellhousing? How about compatability of motor mounts and
> engine accessories (power steering, air compressor etc)?.

The exhaust is siamese rather than spaced so get headers or use the 89
manifolds.

> Will I need the computer from the '89 car?

Absolutely! Vast differences between the carb'd 84-85 and the EFI
models. Try to get the whole wiring harness to make it easier.

> I'm interested in a little more power than I've got
> and don't need a hot rod. Anyone got other recommendations to accomplish that?

You'll need to change the fuel pump to the stock (89) in tank pump and
add a fuel return line to the tank as well. Racer Walsh has some items
for the 2.8's such as cams, 4-V intakes and carbs. Depending on your
state any/all of the above would make things illegal though. Check your
states laws before you do any engine swapping/modifications. In NC
since my '85 never had a 2.9 it wont pass even though it'd be much
cleaner than my stock 2.8.

Tim Turner/Manic Mechanic
Custer Auto Repair
Wilmington NC


>
> Thanks....
>
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Date: Tue, 18 May 1999 22:43:56 -0400
From: Tim Turner
Subject: Re: FTE Small - Can't find Spout

Dave Slotter wrote:
>
> At 11:17 PM -0400 5/13/99, Tim Turner wrote:
> >Dave Slotter wrote:
> >
> > > Just keep in mind that timing is different for different vehicles
> >> (manual versus automatic transmissions for example).
> >
> >Actually I can't think of a Ford with EEC-IV that isn't 10 BTDC from '85
> >to '93. Seems to be a standard with the spout disconnected.
> >
> >TT
>
> Tim,
>
> My 1987 Mercury Merkur XR4Ti has a C-3 automatic transmission and it
> is supposed to be set to 13 degrees BTDC instead of 10. However, the
> manual version of the car (utilizing a T-9 transmission) is set to 10
> degrees BTDC. Of course, while it is a Ford, it isn't a truck. Maybe
> that was what you were referring to?

No I meant Ford as a whole.. I'll excuse myself as calling 'Merkur' a....

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